HC Deb 14 July 1919 vol 118 cc62-3W
Mr. G. MURRAY

asked the Home Secretary whether a Bill will be introduced during this Session to give effect to the recommendations of Lord Desborough's Committee on the Pay and Conditions of the Police throughout England, Scotland, and Wales; whether the Committee had under consideration at the same time the question of legalising the status and conditions of police women; and, if not, whether he will consider the-desirability of its early consideration by Lord Desborough's Committee, or by such special Committee as he might appoint for the purpose, with the object of including any recommendations in respect to police women into the. Bill to be introduced?

Mr. SHORTT

T have already introduced a Bill which will enable the Government to give effect to the recommendations of Lord Desborough's Committee so far as legislation is necessary for that purpose. The employment of women on police duties is not within the scope of Lord Desborough's Committee, and I think it will be well to defer till later the appointment of a Committee on this subject. The matter is still in an experimental stage—it has achieved some measure of success under war conditions—but we have had as yet very little experience of how it will work in peace conditions.

Sir S. HOARE

asked the Home Secretary when the Desborough Report on the pay and conditions in the police force will be published?

Mr. SHORTT

I hope it will be published to-morrow.