HC Deb 08 May 1922 vol 153 cc1828-9W
Mrs. WINTRINGHAM

asked the Home Secretary how many members of the Metropolitan police women patrols have already been dismissed; and how many have received notice of dismissal?

Mr. SHORTT

The services of 22 of the women patrols have been dispensed with and all the remainder are under notice to relinquish their posts. The notices expire (except in the case of two officers) when the patrols complete their current year's service, the dates ranging from 12th May to 27th December next.

Mrs. WINTRINGHAM

asked the Home Secretary in what districts the women patrols have been already dispensed with?

Mr. SHORTT

In the Metropolitan Police District the women patrols are not regularly posted to particular districts, but employed where they can be of the greatest use for the time being, and this practice will be continued during the process of disbandment.

Mrs. WINTRINGHAM

asked the Home Secretary if he will state on whom, after the disbandment of the women patrols, the duty will fall of making the statements of children and young persons in cases where they allege offences against them?

Mr. SHORTT

I would refer the bon. Member to the answer which I gave on the 6th April last to the hon. Member for the Erdington Division of Birmingham (Sir A. Steel-Maitland).