HC Deb 23 June 1927 vol 207 cc2075-6W
Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the complaints in Metropolitan suburban districts as to the prevalence of undetected thieving, and seeing that the number of Criminal Investigation Department officers is not sufficient to follow up a large proportion of these cases, he will consider increasing the strength of the police forces to pre-War establishment'?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I cannot admit the suggestions as to the prevalence of undetected thieving or the inadequacy of the Criminal Investigation Department. After careful review, however, of the requirements of the Metropolitan Police District, the establishment has been increased: the strength of the force is at present only slightly below the pre-War figure and will shortly exceed it.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the Home Secretary whether it is proposed to increase the strength of the police forces in view of the great increase in the demand for traffic control?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The adjustment of the strength of the county and borough forces to the varying needs is in the first instance a matter for the local police authorities. All applications for my approval of proposed augmentations are considered on their merits, and in a number of cases approval has been given.