POLICE FORCE STRENGTH

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28854, 26 March 1959, Page 7

POLICE FORCE STRENGTH

50 More Men A Year Needed

(New Zeaiana Press Association) WELLINGTON, March 25. To keep pace with the expanding population meant an increase of about 50 a year in total police strength, the Commissioner of Police (Mr W. S. Brown) told 14 senior sergeants in the final day of their three-week induction course at the Trentham police, training school today. This, in turn, would mean added responsibility and more men being required to fill key positions, he said.

The course could have a great effect on the future of police, but it would depend on how the senior sergeants employed the knowledge and experience they gained. So far, results were satisfactory. If they continued to be so, the course would be a forerunner of others.

•’On your return. I suggest you examine thoroughly the operation of your particlular district. Find out, for example, if men and resources are being used where they are needed. Our primary function is the protection of the public and their property, and to do this the best possible use must be made of the men in the field —whether on the beat or in a patrol car.” Mr Brown urged the officers to increase their knowledge and to serve the community by identifying themselves with it. “As well as keeping abreast of department matters, you should keep in touch with the world about you,” he said.