HC Deb 17 October 1946 vol 427 cc256-7W
Mr. Osborne

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware of the dissatisfaction among rural policemen at the abolition of the war-duty allowance, especially since police wages have increased only 26 per cent. on prewar rates against the 50 per cent. increase in industrial wages; and if he will investigate wages, conditions and promotion.

Mr. Ede

The war duty allowance was granted in recognition of war-time conditions of service that were peculiar to the police, and, in particular, as regards constables and sergeants, in recognition of the suspension of the normal entitlement to time-off or payment in lieu for extended hours of duty. The continued payment of the war duty allowance could not be justified after the end of 1945, and when it was withdrawn the normal entitlement to compensation for extended hours of duty was restored. As regards the second part of the Question, pay and other important features of police conditions of service will be discussed at meetings of the Police Councils before the end of this month.