HC Deb 08 April 1957 vol 568 cc101-2W
Mr. Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on how many occasions during 1956 firearms were used by the police in Jamaica in the course of effecting arrests; how many rounds of ammunition were expended: how many persons were killed and how many persons wounded by police officers in arresting or attempting to arrest persons suspected of committing offences; and how many innocent bystanders were injured.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The figures are 28: 44: 2 and 12: and 1, respectively.

Mr. Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that heavy blue serge is an unsuitable material for the uniform of police officers working in a tropical climate; and if he will arrange for the provision of a lighter material for this purpose in Jamaica.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The Jamaica Government inform me that a lighter serge material is being progressively introduced.

Mr. Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware of the public disquiet in Jamaica regarding the methods and activities of the police; and what steps he has taken or will take to remedy the present unsatisfactory state of public feeling in relation to the enforcement of law and order.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I know of no such disquiet. On the contrary, my information is that the force enjoys the growing confidence and respect of the public. The second part of the Question does not therefore arise.

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