Manawatu Evening Standard. Circulation, 3,500 Copies Daily. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1910. THE POLICE FORCE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 9134, 5 February 1910, Page 4

Manawatu Evening Standard. Circulation, 3,500 Copies Daily. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1910. THE POLICE FORCE.

It is satisfactory to notice that the reorganisation of the Police Force is being proceeded with by the Government. Mr Bishop's Commission of Enquiry revealed the existence of unsuspected ' grievances in the service. There as a feeling of unrest and an undoubted impression prevailing that influence and wire-pulling were surer passports to advancement than merit and efficiency. Graver abuses were also hinted at requiring stern measures if the force was t<? be brought to the most serviceable condition. With a view to this end an entire change has been made in the system of control. Instead of the usual practice, which has not a great deal to commend it, of importing an officer from England, a New Zealand Civil servant, acquainted by long residence in the" Dominion with its conditions and requirements, hae taken over the Department, and will administer it in future. The headquarters staff is also to be reorganised completely. Formerly the duties were carried out

by members of the force, but now the work of the head office is to be entrusted to clerks from other branches of the Civil service. This arrangement is expected to remove'the com- ) plaint that the head office exercised too much influence in decisions that were arrived at. The altered system of control should give the men greater confidence and more incentive -to strive for promotion. If they know that they will be dealt with fairly and justly by their chief, that their breaches of discipline will be certainly punished, but that efficiency and attention to duty- will receive their deserts, it will not be long before an improvement will be wrought. The Government should not lose sight of the ot,her findings of the Commission, however. The evidence went to show that the conditions of service leav.e much to be desired. The rate of pay is not high enough to retain the best men in the force or to attract others of the standard necessary for the responsible positions of guardians of the peace. There were many complaints also about the accommodation provided in somo of the larger centres for the constables, and other minor grie-

vances were voiced Before the Commission. If the force is to be put upon a proper footing these points must receive attention, for they affect the well-being of the whole service. It is to be hoped that before Parliament meets the new regime will have been completely established and showing good results.