§ Sir C. CAYZERasked the Home Secretary whether, in connection with his announcement that the police force is to be increased by 5 per cent., he will consider the appointment of further women police?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSMy hon Friend is under a misapprehension. Steps have been taken to fill vacancies on the authorised strength, but no increase of strength has been decided upon. The establishment of women police was specially increased at the end of 1924.
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§ Sir C. CAYZERasked the Home Secretary whether the Home Office has considered the suggestion that women warders should be raised to the status of constables, and should be specially trained to take statements of witnesses of their own sex or of the very young; and have they calculated whether this innovation would entail much additional outlay?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSNo, Sir. I have had no suggestion before me for giving the status of constable to police matrons, to whom presume my hon. Friend refers. Their duties do not include the taking of statements from women and girls. The provision already made for the taking of such statements by women constables or other trained women is summarised on pages 31 and 32 of the recent Report of the Departmental Committee on Sexual Offences against Young Persons. I am considering in connection with that Report whether any further action is necessary.