THE POLICE COMMISSION.

Oamaru Mail, Volume XXXVII, Issue 10241, 2 September 1909, Page 4

THE POLICE COMMISSION.

(Per Press Association*.) Auckland, September 2. Tn the Police Commission this morning Sub-Inspector Hendry and Serge. Sheehan were recalled by Mi- Dinnie and questioned in respect to their statements regarding handy men. Both, stated that they did not for a moment think that the Commissioner instigated such inquiries or was aware of the existence of such men.

Mr Bishop said that he would regard it as likely to deal a severe blow at the discipline of the force here if it was correct, as stated, that two men were using their positions to convey information to tho head_ office. Personally he did not think for a moment that Sir Dinnie would allow that, but if the report was true the two clerks referred to must have done this for their own benefit or for tho advantage of someone else. So far, however, they had only a repetition of rumors, and there was no reflection upon Mr Dinnie. Before the Police Commission to-day Inspector Cullen said t-liat three months' training in the depot was quite enough for new men. but there was neod for more practical instruction and less law in the depot. There were many fine men ill the Auckland force, but there was too large a proportion of undesirables. Rather too inucli was made of the clerical department; men of that department should not be left too long iii tho office after they had been appointed sergeants. Clerks were inclined to put on airs and patronise the uniform sergeants, and ho had known one clerk who wanted to look patronizingly upon his inspector. Sergeants shoiil-1 pan an examination m practical police work, discipline and iaw bearing tliercm, after they had been recommojdcd by their inspector for promotion. The same should apply to promotions in the detective force. A medical examination should be necessary before promotions were made. He did" not think that there should be so manv transfers, especially among the young men at their own request. Regarding defaulters, it would be better to iet them remain in the district in which they had defaulted.