HC Deb 12 December 1922 vol 159 c2637W
Mrs. WINTRINGHAM

asked the Home Secretary whether he will consider the reinstatement of an adequate number of women police with full powers for the protection of children and young persons in the streets and parks?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Provision has been made, as the hon. Member is aware, for the retention of 20 women patrols, including the proper proportion of superior officers. I am looking carefully and sympathetically into the conditions of their employment.

Mrs. WINTRINGHAM

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that a deputation on the subject of women police was received by the Lord Provost's Committee of Edinburgh Town Council on 29th November; that the deputation was representative of the various co-operative women's guilds in Edinburgh and Leith, a number of women's political societies, the prevention of cruelty and national vigilance societies, medical nursing and child welfare societies, and several girls' organisations; that it was maintained that it was essential that all criminal cases concerning women and children should be investigated by women appointed to the Criminal Investigation Department; and whether, in view of the Prime Minister's recent promise to consider the matter, he can make a statement before the Prorogation of the House on the reinstatement of women police?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I must refer the hon. Member to my answer given this day to her oral question, to which I cannot at present add anything.