HC Deb 02 July 1953 vol 517 cc35-6W
44. Mr. Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that John Reginald Christie, a man who had five convictions for theft, false pretences and malicious wounding, was enrolled in 1939 as War Reserve Constable X 112; how, in view of this man's criminal record, this was possible; and what action is taken by his Department to see that criminals are not enrolled into the police force.

Sir H. Lucas-Tooth

My right hon. and learned Friend regrets that in the conditions of rapid expansion of the Metropolitan Police War Reserve at the outbreak of war this man's criminal history did not come to light. He is, however, satisfied that the inquiries now made before recruits are accepted provide an adequate safeguard against the enrolment of persons with criminal records.