The London Police Demands.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 6262, 8 July 1890, Page 3

The London Police Demands.

The following ia a copy of the petition which was forwarded two months ago by the Metropolitan Police to the Home Secretary and the Chief Oommhsioner of Police : “Sir,—As you may be aware of, for a considerable time past a feeling of dissatisfaction has existed amongst us at the rate of pay that we receive. This feeling has intensified and grown to such proportions that unmistakeably predict that unless more suitable terms are arranged a serious catastrophe will take place in London, and one that we will regret. Wo have met and, not being allowed to join a union or form a society, discussed the matter and decided to send to you. in writing, our demands, if such they may be termed. We consider that the police force of the metropolis is not sufficient to be able to cope with the serious difficulties that are to day cropping np, and which mean extra work for us. For instance the recent demonstrations and large meetings that have been held, at which we must be present to maintain order. We know that men in the force have to go on night duty after having been tramping miles with a procession. For this they receive nothing extra as sir, you may know ; and we humbly bfg to submit that oil extra work shall be paid for, at what rate you may see fit. We also consider that the wage on entering the force is cot sufficient, and think that if it were raised to 27s per week, a number of thoroughly competent men would join who to-day will not do so, and these would go to make the force stronger, which to-day is badly required. This would mean less of the -extra duty that is imposed on ns. With regard to the wages paid, we are of opinion that there should be a rise all round ; 24s per week for eight hours’ ■ duty per day is not enough ; in fact, we do not receive what the unskilled labourer receives—viz, fid per hour. This, we say, is not right or just.. The .property and lives that we have to look after should be a sufficient excuse for good wages to be paid. We are supposed to rise from 24s to 31s per week, hut there arc not many who do so, except those whom the superintendent ‘ marks,’ or the inspector at the section house can trust for bis own interests. This, sir, we say is a monstrous shame. No man can get promoted through his own ability and perseverance ; he must be what we term ‘ well in ’ with the superintendent, or the latter can keep him at the bottom while he remains in the force. This system, we think, should bo abolished, and the man who deserves to be promoted .should be. Reserve men should have an increase in their wages.—Trusting that yon may see your way clear to remedy these abuses of which wo complain of, we remain yours obediently (signed) the Men of the and G divisions.”