§ Mr. RHYSasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to a widespread desire among the townspeople of Barking to present a testimonial to Police-inspector Jennings, of the Metropolitan Police, on his retirement after 27 years' service; and whether he will take steps to authorise the receipt of such testimonial?
Mr. HENDERSONThe General Orders of the Force provide that
while the acceptance by police officers of testimonials spontaneously given by their comrades will in proper cases be sanctioned, this sanction will not be extended when the testimonial is offered by members of the public unless under very exceptional circumstances.I have consulted the Commissioner of Police, and he informs me that there are, in his judgment, no exceptional circumstances which would justify him in sanctioning the receipt of a testimonial in the present case.