“GALL TO DUTY”

Southland Times, Issue 20537, 13 July 1928, Page 7

“GALL TO DUTY”

THE LONDON POLICE APPOINTMENT OF VISCOUNT BYNG APPEAL FOR FAIR PLAY (United Press Assn.—By Telegraph—Copyright.) (Rec. 7.40 p.m.) London, July 12. In the House of Commons in committee on the Home Office vote, Mr. Philip Snowden (Labour), in the absence of Mr. Ramsay Macdonald, criticized the appointment of Viscount Byng as Commissioner of Police along the lines indicated by questions. He .■aid that the Labourites did not desire in any way to disparage Viscount Byng’s high military gifts and character, but believed that his experience from the viewpoint of a developed military career was a disqualification, not a recommendation for the Police Commissionership. Mr. Snowden objected to the steady policy of appointing military men to chief positions. There were instances throughout the country of the growing militarization of the police, which destroyed the intimate confident sympathy between police and public. Sir W. Joyson-Hicks, replying, admitted that at the beginning of the year there existed a feeling in the public mind against the police, whose efficiency depended on popularity. Fifty and even ten years ago the force had the affection of the people. Sir William Horwood, the retiring commissioner, made known a desire to retire in February. He discussed his succession with Mr. Baldwin. A high police officer still in the service declined the position. He failed to obtain a suitable man from the Civil Service and discussed the position with business men, but found that no business man capable of controlling 20,000 men would accept £3OOO a year. Finally he discussed names and qualifications with Viscount Byng who suggested a serving military officer who refused. He began to feel that Viscount Byng was the right man. The latter firmly refused on the ground of age and a desire for retirement. Sir W. Joyson-Hicks said it was then he used the much-discussed remark. He told Viscount Byng he was not offering him the appointment, but it was a “stern call to duty.” That was the only way he could get Viscount Byng. Following the speeches in the House of Commons on May 17, showing feeling against the police, Mr. Baldwin agreed that they had better go outside the service for a man whose character, experience, ability and idealism would uplift him from petty dispute and restore public confidence in the police. He believed there was never a force of 20,000 men more courteous or admirable or desirous of doing their duty. He wanted the police to get back their popularity despite the problems arising from the Savidge case, street offences, “third degree” commission, increased motoring offences and traffic control. The Minister appealed to the House and public for fair play for the police and Viscount Byng. Mr. T. E. Naylor (Labour) declared that giving the Police Commissionership to a member of the Upper Chamber violated all traditions of the Constitution. He moved to reduce the police vote by £lOO. Sir W. Joynson-Hicks said Viscount Byng had undertaken not to attend the House of Lords while Commissioner. Mr. T. P. O’Connor quoted the provincial chief constable’s statement to the judge: “Too many receivers of stolen property escape when Scotland Yard is asked to make arrests.” He suggested that corruption began near the top. Sir W. Joyson-Hicks asked Mr. O’Connor to supply particulars and promised an inquiry.

The motion was rejected by 231 votes to 106.—Australian Piess Association.—United Service.