HC Deb 20 November 1919 vol 121 cc1166-7W
Mr. J. DAV1SON

asked the Home Secretary whether, in connection with the increase in the pay of the police, regard is being had to the fact that in many districts members of the police force are employed in the administration of the Weights and Measures Acts and other work of like character and not on police duties; and whether, in view of the fact that the employment of civilian inspectors, as is already the case in some districts, removes the anomaly of a retired member of the police force receiving a pension for police duties which he has never performed, and that the appointment of civilian inspectors in all districts would provide remunerative employment for a large number of discharged soldiers and others at present out of work, he will refer this matter to the Departmental Committee on the Police for consideration and recommendation?

Mr. SHORTT

The administration of the Weights and Measures Acts and other Acts of a similar character is a matter for the local authorities. I have no doubt that in determining what staff can best be employed for such purposes they pay regard to the considerations to which the hon. Member calls attention.