Police Motor-Cycle Service

48.

Mr. FREEMAN
asked the Minister of Transport whether he can give any information about the proposed regulations with regard to the formation of a new motor-cycle department of the police service under the Road Traffic Act?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON
Arrangements are in train for the organisation of these units in the various police forces with a view to the better control of road traffic and the proper enforcement of the provisions of the Road Traffic Act. No regulations under the Act are required in connection with these special units.

Mr. FREEMAN
When will the part of the Act dealing with this force come into operation?

Mr. MORRISON
It will be substantially in operation—perhaps not completely—by the beginning of next year, but the responsibility in that matter, as far as the Government are concerned, rests with my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary.

Mr. FREEMAN
Approximately, how many people will be involved?

Mr. MORRISON
Probably the number of motor units will he in the neigh bourhood of 1,000 for the whole country.

Colonel ASHLEY
Will the Road Fund contribute towards the cost?

Mr. MORRISON
Yes, in accordance with the Act, there will be an annual contribution, not towards the police fund as such, but towards the motor vehicles, out of the Road Fund.

Mr. MILLS
Will this force be recruited from the existing police force or will there be any special enlistment?

Mr. MORRISON
I think that that is a matter for the local authorities, but I understand that, in the main, they will be recruited from the existing force.

Mr. DAY
Will the machines be British made?

Mr. MORRISON
I should assume so, but that is a question for the Home Secretary.

Mr. HALL-CAINE
Will these police on motor cycles be in uniform?

Mr. MORRISON
I understand that in any case nobody can be stopped upon the road unless by a policeman in uniform. Perhaps the hon. Member will consult the Act to verify that, but I think it is so.