§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will seek the views of hon. Members, representing constituencies in and around London before any sub-machine guns are issued to the Metropolitan police; and if he will make a statement
§ Mr. HurdOn the arrangements for the issue of such weapons for protection purposes, I have nothing to add to the answer given to the hon. Member for Walsall. North (Mr. Winnick) on 4 April at column 550. My right hon. and learned Friend has already agreed that the Metropolitan police may acquire a small number of such special weapons; their issue will be subject to strict controls. The decision on their issue in particular cases will be an operational decision for the police on which consultation would not be practicable.