HC Deb 24 November 1933 vol 283 cc407-8W
Mr. McENTEE

asked the Home Secretary the approximate percentage of amount of rent covered over all ranks in the Metropolitan police by the rent-aid allowances granted under the statutory regulations; and whether such percentage is in accordance with the recommendations of the Police Council?

Sir J. GILMOUR

The rent allowances payable to married inspectors, sergeants and constables in the Metropolitan Police cover the rent and rates paid by approximately 30 per cent., 28 per cent. and 28 per cent. of those ranks respectively. In present circumstances I regret I cannot see my way to authorise any increase in these allowances. It was explained to the Police Council in September, 1932, that it is not practicable to apply in all cases the recommendation made by a Committee of the Council in 1923 that rent allowances should be raised to an amount sufficient to cover the full rent and rates paid by at least 80 per cent. of the men in each rank.