New Uniform For N.Z. Police; Open Tunic; Collar, Tie

Wanganui Chronicle, 29 November 1948, Page 4

New Uniform For N.Z. Police; Open Tunic; Collar, Tie

WELLINGTON. Last Night (PA). —An indication that the uniform

worn by officers and men of the New Zealand Police Force would be changed within the next 12 months was given today by the Commissioner of Police (Mr. J. Cummings), who has just returned to Wellington from an overseas visit. Before Mr. Fraser, who is also Minister of Police, left New Zealand, said Mr. Cummings, he discussed a proposal to change the uniform. When he met Mr. Fraser again In England he said he thought the uniform should definitely be changed and within the next 12 months. Mr. Cummings said he had seen several patterns. Although nothing could be finalised because cloth would have to be chosen from what was available, the tunic would be cut with an open neck and a collar and tie would be worn. The colour will be blue, but again depending on the cloth. It is unlikely the helmet will be retained and it probably will be replaced by a can. The Commissioner said a change from the old style of uniform was being made in England, where men coming from training depots were the first being equipped, and also in Sydney and Melbourne. Mr. Cummings said since his first visit to England some vears ago, the most noticeable improvement in police methods were in the scientific and mechanical fields. New radio sets, giving communication between station and car and car had been shipped some time ago from England and should be in usp <n Noty Zealand shortly. These, he said, had proved highly efficient.