Oral Answers to Questions

John Bercow Excerpts

Monday 3rd July 2017 Commons Chamber

[Dr David Drew (Stroud) (Lab/Co-op)]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

In welcoming back the hon. Member for Stroud (Dr Drew), I am informed that during his enforced and involuntary absence he has become a doctor of philosophy, upon which the House wishes to congratulate him, I am sure.

[Dr Drew]

I had to do something with my wasted years.

I welcome the police Minister to his place. We all congratulate the specials on the work they do, which is of course first-rate, but it seems to me from my experience—I am going out with the specials on Friday, so I am sure they will tell me in no uncertain terms whether I am right—that being in the specials is no longer an entrance point to the full-time constabulary. Is there a reason for that? If it is because of problems of release or of financial support, will the Minister look into that and do something about it?

--- Later in debate ---

[Several hon. Members rose—]

[Mr Speaker]

Order. I am sorry but we must move on; demand has exceeded supply, as is very often the case in this place.