THE POLICE FORCE.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXV, Issue 10713, 22 April 1913, Page 6

THE POLICE FORCE.

OPINIONS FROM CHftI.STCHUR.CH {By TelegravH. — Press Association.) CHRISTCHURCHr Saturday. Regarding the alleged dissatisfaction in the police force, a reporter made inquiries amongst several members of the local force some days ago, and he was assured that there was no trouble amongst the Ohristchurch men. No mention of forming an association had. been made, and Sub-Inspector Mackinnon declared that he had not been approached by any man wlio harboured a grievance. As far as he ■could judge, the constables in Christchurch were a happy family. These observations, however, do not appear to apply to the whole force, as a reporter way informed by one Christehurch constable this afternoon that a majority cf the local foreiintended to stand by the Auckland men. This majority, it is stated;. is "sick and tired of this humbugging, domineering way that is fast creeping into the New Zealand police- force." It is stated that one .member of the local force wae refused an interview by the. Hon. A. L. Herdman (Minister of Justice), when he was in Christehurch, and the force is dissatis: fled with ooritinually receiving trie reply from the Minister to complaints and grievances., "I will inquire- into the matter." It is claimed that men have been promoted in Christehurch who are years junior to men who have higher qualifications. Further statements made to the pressman go to show that, amongst a number of the Christehurch men at least theiv is a feeling of dissatisfaction. The men declare that they have no grievance against any of the officials here—in fact, they consider that, a.s far the head officials are concerned, they are better served in Christchurch than in any other town in New Zealand.