POLICE PATROLS

Grey River Argus, 12 May 1943, Page 6

POLICE PATROLS

NEED OF RADIO. AUCKLAND, May, 6. When Mr. F. H. Levien, S.M., and the Auckland Junior Chamber of Commerce discussed the need for police patrol cars being equipped with radio apparatus they were not introducing a new subject, but were simply reviving one which has been the cause of considerable controversy over a number of years. Far from being a new suggestion, the installation of radios in New Zealand patrol cars was regarded as almost an accomplished fact as far back as 1934. However, the vehicles still rely on the cumbersome and out-of-date telephone contact, which was discarded in overseas countries years ago. In 1934, when Mr. W. G. Wohlmann was Commissioner of Police, some criticism was directed at the Police Department on the methods employed. His statement that it would be helpful to have high-powered motorcars and wireless sets as in other countries, and the granting of another £20,000 a year to the department would possibly allow something to be done in that direction, indicated that economy was the obstacle against the provision of better facilities. Late in 1934 the Auckland daily press reported that radio communication for police work was before the New Zealand police authorities, and it was thought that the day was not far distant when ra'dio signals would become an essential part of police patrol activities. Many officials in the department recognised the value of introducing an accepted and modern service and the fact that the system of telephoning at intervals is still used is not due to lack of initiative on their part.

Although there was no question that excellent results were being achieved by the police, it was felt at that time that th'e great strain on their resources would be considerably relieved by more modern facilities. It was thought that a mobile force working systematically would in itself be a great deterrent’to wouldbe offenders. It was realised that in other countries where radio had been used for police work it had been found invaluable, and that New Zealand could well benefit by the example set.