HC Deb 21 September 1909 vol 11 c389W
Mr. FIELD

asked the Chief Secretary whether it is the usual procedure that policemen in plain clothes should carry and show on request their legal authority for demanding a gun licence; and whether he will arrange that when members of the constabulary ask for a licence to be shown they will disclose their authority for doing so?

Mr. BIRRELL

I am informed by the constabulary authorities that members of the force do not, when in plain clothes, carry any such authority as that indicated, but should need arise for action on their part they at once disclose their identity. I see no reason for making a change in the existing practice.