§ Mr. HAYDAYasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the Nottingham special constables are to continue in being without regard to the signing of peace; whether he has issued any instructions or advice on this matter to local authorities; if so, will he state their nature; and, if local authorities have been advised to increase the numbers of special constables and continue their service for a further period of years, will he state the reason?
§ Mr. SHORTTI have issued a circular to police authorities recommending that the existing special constables should, as far as possible, be kept in being as a police reserve for service in emergencies. The establishment of such a reserve was recommended by the Home Office in 1911, but it only became an effective force on the outbreak of the War through the public spirit and patriotism of the men who offered themselves in large numbers for appointment as special constables. It is very desirable to retain a call on theservices of the special constables till demobilisation is complete, and afterwards to form an organised reserve of those willing to render public service, though I hope occasion will rarely arise for asking them to do active duty.