§ Mr. MYERSasked the Home Secretary what is the number of mounted police now serving within the Metropolitan Police area, with the average capital expenditure involved in respect of horse and equipment, and the average weekly charges for upkeep and pay per unit of the service; for what purpose the force is being maintained; and whether, having regard to the declared necessity for economy in expenditure, he proposes to effect any reduction upon this force and, is so, to what extent?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe number of mounted men now serving is 264 (exclusive of grooms); the average price of a horse is1878W £70, and of the saddlery, etc., £25 per horse. The average weekly charges for pay and upkeep amount to about £7 7s. 6d. per man. The duties of the mounted branch are the daily patrol of long distance beats, traffic control, and attendance at public processions and demonstrations, and on ceremonial occasions. They are employed on all occasions where large crowds congregate and in emergencies they are essential to reinforce the dismounted men. Reductions are being effected, but I am not at present in a position to state the full number it will be possible to reduce.