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THE POLICE COMMISSION. WEDNESDAY, AUG. 10.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Thursday 11 August 1881, page 6
News
1RonnieLand
2009-09-17 04:17:52.0
References to Mrs. Burn should have been to Mrs Byrne
THE POLICE COMMISSION. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Thursday 24 March 1881, page 6
News
1RonnieLand
2009-09-03 20:33:36.0
Some lines missing due to folds.
AN OLD STORY RE-TOLD. THE LAST STAND OF THE KELLY GANG. AT GLENROWAN, JUNE 28, 1880.
The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889-1931) Thursday 28 June 1906, page 11
News
1RonnieLand
2009-06-19 01:24:46.0
"vi et armis" = "by force of arms"
PERSONAL.
The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889-1931) Tuesday 26 April 1904, page 5
News
1RonnieLand
2009-06-16 20:39:40.0
Nicholas Sadleir arrived in Australia on board SS Great Britain.
MR. SADLIER'S SUICIDE.
The Hobarton Mercury (Tas. : 1854-1857) Wednesday 11 June 1856, page 2
News
1RonnieLand
2008-11-28 07:39:42.0
Some guessing due to obscuring of text by folding.

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THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-23 08:27:05.0the constables, expressed a desire for a modi
fication of the present regulation uniform
An objection has been raised to the tunic
which IB regarded aB wholly unBuited to the
the chin, and therefore most oppressive ia
summer In the country districts it ia Boldom
in barge of a station ia a Btrict (¡is
ciphnarian Aa a rule it 13 only worn
when attending assize courtB, or ou the
occaBion of Bom o public demonstration On
the other hand the oflicere, when questioned
upon this point, were avorso to the abolition
appear smartly and well dreBsed The men
think that the jumper IB ample for every pur-
pose of parado and show, while at the samo
time they would gain by the propoBed change
both in comfort and economy, The delegates
expressed themselves alao desirous of the
white troueera in summor being dispensed
with Their retention entails expense and
able and prejudicial to health. The whlto
IX -UMIOBM
gloves are also condemned aa superfluous
that the wearer is on duty, and that IB not
needed, as it must be self evident when a
constable IB attending to the duties on hia
beat. In hen of the white- trousers, the men
eupgeet a light tweed for scromer wear, and
glare, cape worn by the consíabíes ia taken
exception to na failing to serve the object
intended, namely, to preaerve ttie constable
when doing dnty from the incleaency of the
weather Ita use is said to be sometitnea
attended with danger, inasmuch as it ia ao
looso beicw and BO tight about the neck that
by pulling the cape over a constable's hoad
he may bo rendered powerless, and possibly i
emothered, if attacked by a number of dia I
orderly persona It io proposed to substitute
for those cap.B light waterproof coats, which
peding locomotion The helmet at present
in nee IB generally condemned aa being cum-
brous and uncomfortably heavy in vvvrm
head if an unusual exertion is required The
cloth, willi a I rench peak, and a white covor
and fall at the back for summer, would bo
sufficient for every purpose Mr Nicolson,
tbo late acting chief commissioner, appears to
approve of the helmet, the reaBon assigned
bping that policemen should be distinguish-
able from a distance The delegates repre-
tion to the helmet, the preaent military
cloak, and the Bword , tho latter being re
gaided aa useless, except for purposes of
show, lhe head dress is described as clumsy,
heavy, and easily displaced , and m lieu of
is eupgestod The more simple accoutrement
ol their horses when doing duty in tho bush
has also been recommended by some of tho
witneaeea, but there aeema no reaaon for
mokmg onj chango in this particular Your
ct mmiaBioners do not consider it di airable to
recommend any important alteration m the
present uniform and accoutrements of tho
coutforthe (.In/ed cape,and a cloik of similar
material for mounted men An improved
Bljlo of helmet mit-lit also be ndopted with
advantage, and the men should onlj be re-
quired to wenr white glovea when attending
form
the constables, expressed a desire for a modi-
fication of the present regulation uniform.
An objection has been raised to the tunic,
which is regarded as wholly unsuited to the
the chin, and therefore most oppressive ina
summer. In the country districts it is seldom
in charge of a station is a strict dis-
ciplinarian. As a rule it is only worn
when attending assize courts, or on the
occasion of some public demonstration. On
the other hand the officers, when questioned
upon this point, were averse to the abolition
appear smartly and well- dressed. The men
think that the jumper is ample for every pur-
pose of paradeo and show, while at the same
time they would gain by the proposed change
both in comfort and economy. The delegates
expressed themselves also desirous of the
white trousersa in summer being dispensed
with. Their retention entails expense and
able and prejudicial to health. The white
IX -UNIFORM.
gloves are also condemned as superfluous
that the wearer is on duty, and that is not
needed, as it must be self-evident when a
constable is attending to the duties on his
beat. In lieu of the white trousers, the men
suggest a light tweed for summer wear, and
glazed cape worn by the constables is taken
exception to as failing to serve the object
intended, namely, to preserve the constable
when doing duty from the inclemency of the
weather. Its use is said to be sometimes
attended with danger, inasmuch as it is sao
looso below and so tight about the neck that
by pulling the cape over a constable's head
he may be rendered powerless, and possibly
smothered, if attacked by a number of dis-
orderly persons. It is proposed to substitute
for those capes light waterproof coats, which
peding locomotion. The helmet at present
in use is generally condemned as being cum-
brous and uncomfortably heavy in warm
head if an unusual exertion is required. The
cloth, with a French peak, and a white cover
and fall at the back for summer, would be
sufficient for every purpose. Mr. Nicolson,
the late acting chief commissioner, appears to
approve of the helmet, the reason assigned
being that policemen should be distinguish-
able from a distance. The delegates repre-
tion to the helmet, the present military
cloak, and the sword , the latter being re-
garided as useless, except for purposes of
show, lhe head-dress is described as clumsy,
heavy, and easily displaced ; and in lieu of
is suggested. The more simple accoutrement
of their horses when doing duty in the bush
has also been recommended by some of the
witnesses, but there seems no reaaon for
makinmg any change in this particular. Your
commissioners do not consider it desirable to
recommend any important alteration in the
present uniform and accoutrements of theo
coat for the glazed cape, and a cloak of similar
material for mounted men. An improved
style of helmet might also be adopted with
advantage, and the men should only be re-
quired to weanr white gloves when attending
form.
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-23 08:17:04.0of service in the city lhey should, where
cempetent, be sent occasionally to the coun
try, say for five years Another witness
states that ' when a man has been in charge
of a Btntion for two years it is quite timeo that
he should leave it If a crime were perpetrated
in a district shortly after the traiiBÍer of a
eouBtable, he should be sent back to assist in
knowledge of the locality and of the pooplo
would no doubt be serviceable Sergeant
RichnrdB (2035) deemed five yearsa long enough
for a man to be in any district It wasa main
famed, however, that one constable well
acquainted with a district 13 equal to three
men without any knowledge of it Crimínals
generally pursue special linea-that ia, one
man ia cBBeutiall) a burglar another a cattle
6ttaler, und so on 'i ho peculiar aptitude
and prochvily of oflonders are known to a
coi atablo who Ins been resident for any
time in a district, and tina 1 nowledgo muat
greatly facilitate inquiry PablicanB also arG
slow to give information to the police, unleaa
they ore well acquainted with them lhere
aeemp, from the evidence every reason to
believe that a const iblo who is allowed to
remain for a lengthened period in anylocalit)
is liable to form uBBociationa and aaaume a
demeanour mcomi alible with his position
Ho frequently a-quires land and other
jealouBy while hia ideas of discipline owing
to ihe absence of immediate control, musat
become more or less relaxed Upon a review
(f the whole circumstances, your commis
Bioners consider that neither ofheera nor con
stables should bo allowed to remain at any
of service in the city. They should, where
competent, be sent occasionally to the coun-
try, say for five years." Another witness
states that "when a man has been in charge
of a station for two years it is quite time that
he should leave it. If a crime were perpetrated
in a district shortly after the transfer of a
constable, he should be sent back to assist in
knowledge of the locality and of the people
would no doubt be serviceable." Sergeant
Richards (2035) deemed five years long enough
for a man to be in any district. It was main-
tained, however, that one constable well
acquainted with a district is equal to three
men without any knowledge of it. Criminals
generally pursue special lines – that is, one
man is essentially a burglar, another a cattle
stealer, and so on. The peculiar aptitude
and proclihvity of offenders are known to a
constable who has been resident for any
time in a district, and this knowledge must
greatly facilitate inquiry. Publicans also are
slow to give information to the police, unless
they are well acquainted with them. There
seems, from the evidence, every reason to
believe that a constable who is allowed to
remain for a lengthened period in any locality)
is liable to form associations and assume a
demeanour incompatible with his position.
He frequently acquires land and other
jealousy, while his ideas of discipline owing
to the absence of immediate control, must
become more or less relaxed. Upon a review
o(f the whole circumstances, your commis-
sBioners consider that neither officers nor con-
stables should be allowed to remain at any
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-23 08:11:12.0question of the neccessity and utility of recruits
tical knowledge of the use of firearms The
in Mr., Vincent's code that "all candidates    
geants prior to promotion This is abso-
that " before any constable is allowed to do
caused by ignorance ' The Irish Constabu-
the revised book of drill ;, while, as re-
minds upon the sutject of promotion. In
qualifications will have their eweight,  
years been pursued. The regulattons of the
promotion in the Irish police is that, while  
tiheir standing in the force, in the latter
for promotion should pases an educational
hbave in him all the qualifications for an
year open to all constables , simple as regardsa  
the literary part – -to write good English and
for the exercise of their powers would aoct,
station or district to another involves an im
occasion personal mconvenionce Much
boB been urged pro and con upon
tina point by the witnesses examined lu
some cases it was shown that aB)Btom of
regular triiiBfer was desirable , in others it
was contended that removals sahould not be
made without good reason The transfer of
very efficient couBtablea from atationa in the
north euBtern district, and the substitution of
others m every way inferior, had much to do
«iih the impunity with which the Kelly
.aruily and their e)inpathiaers were enabled
to carry on a wholesale system of horse*
Btealing for ) care At present the necessity
for change arises when tho men are negligent,
through death or retirement it is a bad
I lau, obsertves one witness (1173), " to allow
a man to remain too long in charge of a eta
tion It never yvea other mon a «-banco
VII .– PROMOTION
question of the necessity and utility of recruits
tical knowledge of the use of firearms. The
in Mr. Vincent's code that "all candidates    
geants prior to promotion. This is abso-
that "before any constable is allowed to do
caused by ignorance." The Irish Constabu-
the revised book of drill ;" while, as re-
minds upon the subject of promotion. In
qualifications will have their weight,  
years been pursued. The regulations of the
promotion in the Irish police is that, "while  
their standing in the force, in the latter
for promotion should pass an educational
have in him all the qualifications for an
year open to all constables , simple as regards  
the literary part – to write good English and
for the exercise of their powers would act,
station or district to another involves an im-
occasion personal inconvenieonce. Much
has been urged pro and con, upon
this point by the witnesses examined. In
some cases it was shown that a system of
regular transfer was desirable ;, in others it
was contended that removals should not be
made without good reason. The transfer of
very efficient constablesa from stations in the
north-eastern district, and the substitution of
others in every way inferior, had much to do
with the impunity with which the Kelly
family and their sympathisers were enabled
to carry on a wholesale system of horse-
stealing for years. At present the necessity
for change arises when the men are negligent,
through death or retirement. "It is a bad
plan," observes one witness (1,173), "to allow
a man to remain too long in charge of a sta-
tion. It never gives other men a chance.
VII .– PROMOTION.
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-21 03:04:36.0general efficiency. A man may be an excel
anything higher At present a young mau
nay join the force full of energy, well
educated, and ambitious to rise Ho may
bave in him all the qualifications for an
officer, but the prospect bofore him ia hope
less He may, after many years, become a
senior constable, after a longer period be sp
pointed sergeant nnd by the time he reaches
tbo grade of an officer he has lost all bia en-
thusiasm and a great deal of his energy
M hat is wanted is_Bome method which would
allow of nil the young, active, and in all
respects tfhcient men being selected and
which natura appears to have qualified
them ' If cfficienc), education, good con
office) s, provided an examination interposed
at every stage Your commissioners agree
with the opinion expressed that (question G18)
' there should bo an examination once a
year open to all con stables , simple aa regarda
the literary part-to write good English and
a fair hand, and to perform a Bimple arith
metical computation an examination of
constables undcrcertain circumstances calling
for the exerciae of their powers would oct,
the examination to be conducted in the eamo
manner as thoae in connexion with the
University Tho examination for ofiicera of
comprehensive
1 he periodical transfer of police from one
station or district to another involves un im
portant question of policy, although it muat
occaBion personal mconvenionce Much
tina point hy the witnesses examined lu
some cases it was shtvvn that aB)Btom of
regular triiiBfer was deairable , in othera it
was contended that removala ahould not be
made without good reason Tho transfer of
north euBtern district, und the substitution of
.aruily and their e)inpathiaers wero enabled
to carr) on a wholesale system of horse*
Btealing for ) care At preaent the necessity
I lau, obsetvea one witnesB (1173), " to allow
aman to remain too long in charge of a eta
Men in Melbourne put m their entire period
of Bervice in the city lhey Bhould, where
cempetent, be sent occasionally to tho coun
states that ' whon a man haa been in charge
of a Btntion for two yeara it ia quito timo that
he Bhould leave it If a crimo wero perpetrated
in a district shortly after tho traiiBÍer of a
eouBtable, he Bhould be sent back to assist in
the apprehension of the offender, as Ina
RichnrdB (2035) deemed fiveyeara long enough
for a man to bo in any district It waa main
acquainted with a district 13 equal to throo
men without any knowledge of it Crimínale
and prochvily of oflonders aro known to a
aeemp, from the evidence ever) reason to
remain fora lengthened period in anylocalit)
to ihe absence of immediate control, muat
become more or less rolaxed Upon a review
(f the whole circumstances, jour commis
one station for a longer period than live
yeaiB
The delegates, especially thoae representing
the constables, expreaaed a deairo for a modi
\ III -TEA. si nits
general efficiency. A man may be an excel-
anything higher. At present a young man
may join the force full of energy, well
educated, and ambitious to rise. He may
hbave in him all the qualifications for an
officer, but the prospect before him is hope-
less. He may, after many years, become a
senior constable, after a longer period be ap-
pointed sergeant, and by the time he reaches
the grade of an officer he has lost all his en-
thusiasm and a great deal of his energy.
What is wanted is some method which would
allow of all the young, active, and in all
respects efficient men being selected and
which nature appears to have qualified
them." If efficiency, education, good con-
officers, provided an examination interposed
at every stage. Your commissioners agree
with the opinion expressed that (question 618)
"there should be an examination once a
year open to all constables , simple as regardsa
the literary part – -to write good English and
a fair hand, and to perform a simple arith-
metical computation ; an examination of
constables under certain circumstances calling
for the exercise of their powers would aoct,
the examination to be conducted in the same
manner as those in connexion with the
University. The examination for officers of
comprehensive.
The periodical transfer of police from one
station or district to another involves an im
portant question of policy, although it must
occasion personal mconvenionce Much
tina point by the witnesses examined lu
some cases it was shown that aB)Btom of
regular triiiBfer was desirable , in others it
was contended that removals sahould not be
made without good reason The transfer of
north euBtern district, and the substitution of
.aruily and their e)inpathiaers were enabled
to carry on a wholesale system of horse*
Btealing for ) care At present the necessity
I lau, obsertves one witness (1173), " to allow
a man to remain too long in charge of a eta
Men in Melbourne put in their entire period
of service in the city lhey should, where
cempetent, be sent occasionally to the coun
states that ' when a man has been in charge
of a Btntion for two years it is quite timeo that
he should leave it If a crime were perpetrated
in a district shortly after the traiiBÍer of a
eouBtable, he should be sent back to assist in
the apprehension of the offender, as his
RichnrdB (2035) deemed five yearsa long enough
for a man to be in any district It wasa main
acquainted with a district 13 equal to three
men without any knowledge of it Crimínals
and prochvily of oflonders are known to a
aeemp, from the evidence every reason to
remain for a lengthened period in anylocalit)
to ihe absence of immediate control, musat
become more or less relaxed Upon a review
(f the whole circumstances, your commis
one station for a longer period than five
years.
The delegates, especially those representing
the constables, expressed a desire for a modi
VIII. – TRANSFERS.
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-21 02:56:01.0be g /en to those who have manifested
superior intelligence, ?"al and alacrity in
the discharge of their duties The membera
of the force are therefore e,iven distinctly to
understand that " there will be no heal
tflicient for promotion, however low donn
1 on the semorit) hat it may become necoa
snry to descend for that purpose With this
ol ject two lists are prepared in the mapee
tor general B ofiico a seniority hat nnd a
apecial list lu the former the names of the
cflicerB and men are placed according to
iheir standing in the force, in the latter
distinguished themselves Tor every grade
there is a Bpecial examination by a board
of supenor officers nppointcd for that pur
pose The advantage of such a eystem 13
self evident Tho chief commissioner thinks
thaf every man before bo becomes eligible
for piomouon Bhould paes an educational
test, and from amongst tho»o who have
passed the officers Bhould be chosen He
would " regulate promotion by seniority,
education, efficiency, and general fitness
circle to younger and bettor educated
men Mr Moors, chief clerk of the
Police department, " would like to get
nd entirely of the idea that mere
seniority Bhould gue a man promotion
there Bhould be an educational teat aa well as
general efficiency A man may be an excel
be given to those who have manifested
superior intelligence, zeal and alacrity in
the discharge of their duties." The members
of the force are therefore given distinctly to
understand that "there will be no hesi-
efficient for promotion, however low down
"on the seniority list it may become neces-
sary to descend for that purpose." With this
object, two lists are prepared in the inspec-
tor general's office, a seniority list and a
special list. ln the former the names of the
officers and men are placed according to
tiheir standing in the force, in the latter
distinguished themselves. For every grade
there is a special examination by a board
of superior officers appointed for that pur-
pose. The advantage of such a system is
self-evident. The chief commissioner thinks
that every man before he becomes eligible
for promotion should pases an educational
test, and from amongst those who have
passed the officers should be chosen. He
would "regulate promotion by seniority,
education, efficiency, and general fitness.
circle to younger and better-educated
men." Mr. Moors, chief clerk of the
Police department, "would like to get
rid entirely of the idea that mere
seniority should givue a man promotion
there should be an educational test as well as
general efficiency. A man may be an excel
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-21 02:50:51.0to the adminisBtration of the department
needed, as theo experience of your commis-
The board should sit from time to time,at
stated inteivals, its proceedings to become
records of tbe department.
which eat every Tuesday and Friday. In
time the names of approved candidates thusa
was closed, and so it remained for years
tion A Gazette notice was published, Octo-
ber 21,1870, notifyjing that members of the
waa not attended with advantage (qs.
1,167, 1,516) Recruita taken from the
artilleriy were found in many instances to
women of abanudoned morals The qualifica-
hisa own handwriting, giving answers to
requeres that recruits shall undergo a period
tent tnd undesirable candidates obtaining a
section 12 of the regulations the rule isa laid
man once gets into the forceo, it is difficult to
incapacity, it was urged that theo chief com
constable is born, not made. Such was theo
during the Kely) pursuit men were sent up to  
the proper discharge of his dutiesa. This
military parade and show, as well as theo
arms and other weapons, isa to be
ters appertaining to tbo routino duties of
constables, hut, to a certain extent, ina prac-
London metropolitan police ia essentially
m Mr, Vincent s code that " all candidatos
mentary drill, aa well aa constables and ser-
geants pilor to promotion This is abso
lutely neceasary, as, without some practico in
drill, bodies of men cannot possibly movo
cope with a mob superior in numbera
In the esme excellent work it ia stated
that " before an; constable is allowed to do
duty, superintendent! shall take care that
he IB tboroighly instructed in the require
cauBed by ignorance ' The irish Constabu
lary Code indicates " thal it is required of
every officer und member of the force to be
perfectly acquainted with the exercise mid
movementB oi a campan), as laid down
the revised boole of drill, while, as re
gards instruction m duties, a regular school
for that purpose is established at the dei '
in Phoenix park. In any re organisation of
the present police in Victoria, too much ira
and better instruction of rectutts for police
dutiee.
The mBjonty of the witnesses examined
appeared to be severely exercised in tbeir
mindB upon the sutject of promotion In
no other direction, it is considered, baa
the Victonon police B)Stem so Bignally failed
The régulations on the subject aro explicit,
but the) bave been to a great extent ignored
According to Section 2G4 seniority ia the r ile
of promotion -" All vacancies in tho grades
above that of constable and up to and in
eluding that of Superintendent, are filled up
by promotion from the next inferior grade
this general averment, aa it admonishes
nei iranta ' that seniority, good conduct and
lei gib of service are not tho eolo rccomuaen
datioiiB for promotion for, although thrse
qualifications will have their duo weight,
'efficiency and adaptation for the particular
vncuncy will bo the principal considera
tionB It is manifest that if this principle
were undeviatinf,ly observed in all appoint
a ents in the force, the public and tho membera
of the force would have no just cause to com
plain lho evidence leadB to the conclusion
that the course hore presenbed lins not of late
yearB be& pursued The regulattoiiB of the
I ondon metropolitan police respecting promo
non are almoat identical with thoao of tina
colony except in one vital particular namely,
teat examination of a B'andard suitable to
officials who aro daily called upon to dis
char-re important dutiea, those often affecting
the liveB, liberties, and property of citi/ona
The general prinnple adopted in relation to
promotion in the Irish police ia that, " while
duo regard will always bo paid to long
efficiency of tho service requires something
more than this in niaku g selections for
promotion, and that a preference muat alwaya
VII -PROMOTION
to the adminisstration of the department
needed, as the experience of your commis-
The board should sit from time to time, at
stated intervals, its proceedings to become
records of the department.
which sat every Tuesday and Friday. In
time the names of approved candidates thus
was closed, and so it remained for years.
tion. A Gazette notice was published, Octo-
ber 21,1870, notifying that members of the
was not attended with advantage (qs.
1,167, 1,516) Recruits taken from the
artillery were found in many instances to
women of abandoned morals The qualifica-
his own handwriting, giving answers to
requires that recruits shall undergo a period
tent and undesirable candidates obtaining a
section 12 of the regulations the rule is laid
man once gets into the force, it is difficult to
incapacity, it was urged that the chief com
constable is born, not made. Such was the
during the Kelly pursuit men were sent up to  
the proper discharge of his duties. This
military parade and show, as well as the
arms and other weapons, is to be
ters appertaining to the routine duties of
constables, but, to a certain extent, in a prac-
London metropolitan police is essentially
in Mr., Vincent's code that "all candidates
mentary drill, as well as constables and ser-
geants prior to promotion This is abso-
lutely necessary, as, without some practice in
drill, bodies of men cannot possibly move
cope with a mob superior in numbers."
In the same excellent work it is stated
that " before any constable is allowed to do
duty, superintendents shall take care that
he is thoroughly instructed in the require-
caused by ignorance ' The Irish Constabu-
lary Code indicates "that it is required of
every officer and member of the force to be
perfectly acquainted with the exercise and
movements of a company, as laid down
the revised book of drill ;, while, as re-
gards instruction in duties, a regular school
for that purpose is established at the depôt
in Phoenix park. In any re-organisation of
the present police in Victoria, too much im-
and better instruction of recruits for police
duties.
The majority of the witnesses examined
appeared to be severely exercised in their
minds upon the sutject of promotion. In
no other direction, it is considered, has
the Victorian police system so signally failed.
The regulations on the subject are explicit,
but they have been to a great extent ignored.
According to Section 264, seniority is the rule
of promotion :-" All vacancies in the grades
above that of constable and up to and in-
cluding that of Superintendent, are filled up
by promotion from the next inferior grade."
this general averment, as it admonishes
aspirants "that seniority, good conduct and
length of service are not the sole recommen-
dations for promotion for, although those
qualifications will have their eweight,
"efficiency and adaptation for the particular
vacancy will be the principal considera-
tions." It is manifest that if this principle
were undeviatingly observed in all appoint-
ments in the force, the public and the members
of the force would have no just cause to com-
plain. The evidence leads to the conclusion
that the course here prescribed has not of late
years been pursued. The regulattons of the
London metropolitan police respecting promo-
tin are almost identical with those of this
colony except in one vital particular, namely,
test examination of a standard suitable to
officials who are daily called upon to dis-
charge important duties, those often affecting
the lives, liberties, and property of citizens.
The general principle adopted in relation to
promotion in the Irish police is that, while
due regard will always be paid to long
efficiency of the service requires something
more than this in making selections for
promotion, and that a preference must always
VII .– PROMOTION
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-20 03:29:14.0\ I - It. si MICTION is Dmrt,
1 he police authorities for many years ap
1 rar to have acted on the principle that a
coiiBtable is bom, not made Such waa tho
infatuation that prevoilcd in this respect that
dum g Hie Kell) pursuit mon were sent up to
do duty in the north eaBtern district without
any knowledge of the use of tho firearma
with which they were entrusted Even at
iho prêtent time a foot constable is not sup
the proper discharge of hia dutiea. This
neglect of training aeems to have arisen from
a desire to avoid imparting a military charac
ter to the force Section 3% of the regula-
tions declares that " as the police force ia not
military parado and show, as well as tho
frequent and unnecessary parado of fire-
arms and other weapons, ia to be
avoided ' _ bo police are no doubt intended
ps a'civil forco, and in a peaceful and law
abiding community liko that of Victoria they
are seldom called on to act mlarge bodies when
play, hut experience haa demonstrated tho
than patrol or beat duty. 'lhere can be no
question of the ncccBBity and utility of recruita
being properlj inatructed, not only m all mat-
VI. – INSTRUCTION IN DRILL.
The police authorities for many years ap-
pear to have acted on the principle that a
constable is born, not made. Such was theo
infatuation that prevailed in this respect that
during the Kely) pursuit men were sent up to
do duty in the north-eastern district without
any knowledge of the use of the firearms
with which they were entrusted. Even at
the present time a foot constable is not sup-
the proper discharge of his dutiesa. This
neglect of training seems to have arisen from
a desire to avoid imparting a military charac-
ter to the force. Section 336 of the regula-
tions declares that "as the police force is not
military parade and show, as well as theo
frequent and unnecessary parade of fire-
arms and other weapons, isa to be
avoided." The police are no doubt intended
as a civil force, and in a peaceful and law
abiding community like that of Victoria they
are seldom called on to act in large bodies when
play, but experience has demonstrated the
than patrol or beat duty. There can be no
question of the neccessity and utility of recruits
being properly instructed, not only in all mat-
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-20 03:24:41.0Buitnbility of candidates should be con
Bideied educationally and socially no leaa than
ph.»icall), and a much higher intellectual
etui dard of merit applied in lhe appointment
.ho non observance of the regulation which
reqmreB that recruits ahull undergo a period
01 probation baa resulted in manj lncompo
tent tnd undeairable candidates obtaining a
permanent footing m the police force In
section 12 of the regulationa the rule ia laid
auj conatablts aro found deficient in that
for police duties without which they carnot
become good police coiiBtableB, they will bo
discharged as unsuitable for tho service
of polico waa invested with the powor of dis
cbarLiuga constable without asslgningany rea-
son From evidence given, ttnppears that if a
mun onco gets into the forco, it ia difficult to
remove lum, I£ nu attempt were made to
dispense willi hie services on tho ground of
incapacitj, it was urged that tho chief com
miEBioner would have deputations from the
friends of tho man declaring bim to bo "the
heBt man that ever existed It was admitted
by the delegates that a certnin fixed period of
the superior officers considered that it waa
BupeilluouB, and that tbo proper mode of
dealing with recruits was to Bend them on the
" beat' in company with an experienced con-
would soon be obtained Your commis
eioners recommend that in no instance shall
a recruit bo entrusted with responsible duties
until ho has served a period of probation of
at least two months
V - PnoiUTiON
suitability of candidates should be con-
sidered educationally and socially no less than
physically, and a much higher intellectual
standard of merit applied in lhe appointment
The non-observance of the regulation which
requeres that recruits shall undergo a period
of probation has resulted in many incompe-
tent tnd undesirable candidates obtaining a
permanent footing in the police force. In
section 12 of the regulations the rule isa laid
any constables are found deficient in that
for police duties without which they cannot
become good police constables, they will be
discharged as unsuitable for the service."
of police was invested with the power of dis-
charging a constable without assilgning any rea-
son. From evidence given, it appears that if a
man once gets into the forceo, it is difficult to
remove him. If an attempt were made to
dispense with his services on the ground of
incapacity, it was urged that theo chief com
missioner would have deputations from the
friends of the man declaring him to be "the
best man that ever existed." It was admitted
by the delegates that a certain fixed period of
the superior officers considered that it was
superfluous, and that the proper mode of
dealing with recruits was to send them on the
"beat' in company with an experienced con-
would soon be obtained. Your commis-
sioners recommend that in no instance shall
a recruit be entrusted with responsible duties
until he has served a period of probation of
at least two months.
V. - PROBATION
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-20 03:18:39.0minda of tie other witnesses that tho ap
poinlmcnt of a board of three commissioners
io deal with all matters relating to recruit-
cauces of complaint or dissatisfaction, and
nsuist in raising the standard of efficiency of
the forco generallj A difference of opinion,
however, existed os to the composition of
involved in defining ita functions und its
relation to tho political bead of the depart
ment lhe bourd, ni the opinion of jour
commiBBioners, should consist of the chief
commissioner nnd two competent gentlemen
selected from outside the force one of whom
shall have had legal training Tho chief com-
missioner should art aa chairman and as
executive officer of tho board, and bo, as at
present, lesponeible to the political head of
the department for tho enforcement of the
the force When Bitting as a board
three commiBBiorers Bhonld have co Ordi-
nate ponera, and the dunes appertaining
to tho adminiBtration of the department
service. To tbe board should be entrusted
cisiona to be Quai m all cases affecting the
Government Tins would supersede the pre
force under the Police Statute A modifica-
tion of the act in tina particular ia greatly
needed, as tbo experience of your commis
mocera points to the conclusion that such
braids aro in most instances a mere mockery
'lhe board should Bit from time to time,at
rccordB of tbe department
lowing jour commiBBioners propose to deal
the exiBtmg police regulations, and with
rcBpect to which the delegates were more or
less explicit '1 ho selection of recruits under
lhe old Byatem (Q 117) waa made by a board
which eat every -ucsday and Friday. In
time the names of approved candidates thua
obtained becamo so numerous that tho list
was closed, and BO it remained for years
ltecruite, na they were required, wero taken
from the list in tl.o order of rotation, and
sent beforo the medical board for examina-
tion A Ga-eltc notice was published, Octo-
ber 21,1870, nolifjing that members of the
Permonent Artillery were entitled to admis
eion to tbe police to fill vacancies OB they
occurred According to tho testimony of
many mtelhgont witnesses, tina mode
of recruiting the ranks of tho police
waa not ottended with advantage (qa
1,107, ICIO) KecruitB taken from the
Bitilleiy wero found in manj instances to
have contracted objectionable habita owing
to their association willi low characters mid
women of abaudoned morala lhe qualifica-
tions of a recruit aro thus defined in section
0 of the reLtilations-"Iilling upa form in
hia own handwriting, giving answera to
queries respecting his previous emplojment,
vv hethcr married or single, or a member of a
eecict eocietj ' Many of the documenta,
such aa reportB and memoranda, written by
carno before jour commissionera proved how
utter!) insufficient was tho educational test
Ihus applied 'lhe delegates wero in favour
of a much stricter examination of candidates
'Constables,' observed one of the witnesaea,
' are the groundwork of the wholo force
Hie officers are built upon ua-therefore it ia
essential in tho organisation of tho police
lhat greater attention Bhould be paid
to the class of men taken into it With
thia view tbo commiasion coincide Tho
IY - R_CUOITIr<a
minds of the other witnesses that the ap-
pointment of a board of three commissioners
to deal with all matters relating to recruit-
causes of complaint or dissatisfaction, and
assist in raising the standard of efficiency of
the force generally. A difference of opinion,
however, existed as to the composition of
involved in defining its functions and its
relation to the political head of the depart-
ment. The board, in the opinion ofyjour
commissioners, should consist of the chief
commissioner and two competent gentlemen
selected from outside the force ,one of whom
shall have had legal training The chief com-
missioner should acrt as chairman and as
executive officer of the board, and be, as at
present, responsible to the political head of
the department for the enforcement of the
the force. When sitting as a board
three commissionrers shounld have co-ordi-
nate powers, and the duties appertaining
to the adminisBtration of the department
service. To the board should be entrusted
cisions to be final all cases affecting the
Government. This would supersede the pre-
force under the Police Statute. A modifica-
tion of the act in this particular is greatly
needed, as theo experience of your commis-
sioners points to the conclusion that such
boards are in most instances a mere mockery.
The board should sit from time to time,at
records of tbe department.
lowing your commissioners propose to deal
the existing police regulations, and with
respect to which the delegates were more or
less explicit. The selection of recruits under
the old system (Q. 117) was made by a board
which eat every Tuesday and Friday. In
time the names of approved candidates thusa
obtained became so numerous that the list
was closed, and so it remained for years
Recruits, as they were required, were taken
from the list in the order of rotation, and
sent before the medical board for examina-
tion A Gazette notice was published, Octo-
ber 21,1870, notifyjing that members of the
Permanent Artillery were entitled to admis-
sion to the police to fill vacancies as they
occurred. According to the testimony of
many intelligent witnesses, this mode
of recruiting the ranks of the police
waa not attended with advantage (qs.
1,167, 1,516) Recruita taken from the
artilleriy were found in many instances to
have contracted objectionable habits owing
to their association with low characters and
women of abanudoned morals The qualifica-
tions of a recruit are thus defined in section
9 of the regulations – "Filling up a form in
hisa own handwriting, giving answers to
queries respecting his previous employment,
whether married or single, or a member of a
secret society." Many of the documents,
such as reports and memoranda, written by
came before your commissioners proved how
utterly insufficient was the educational test
thus applied. The delegates were in favour
of a much stricter examination of candidates.
"Constables," observed one of the witnesses,
"are the groundwork of the whole force –
the officers are built upon us – therefore it is
essential in the organisation of the police
tlhat greater attention should be paid
to the class of men taken into it." With
this view the commission coincide. The
IV. – RECRUITING.
THE POLICE COMMISSION.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Saturday 7 April 1883, page 11
News
2009-11-20 03:06:22.0polis, the facilities allowed for ita propaga-
III - BOARD OF THREE COMMISSIONERS.
1 Ahe reP°rt of the select committee
ot the Assembly which Bat during the BOB
alona of 18G12 3 It waa as follows -
Your committee have inquired into and
considered the present BJ utera of polico
management under one I'pmmissioner, and
»bether it Would be more desirable to vest
the management of the force In a board of
the affaire of the Police department under a
board of three commiesionera would bo con-
ducted with greater effie'"1 icy, impartiality,
of the force than ia possible under the pre
nentBjalem. Ibu altiirs alao of the Polrce
vnnouB, and responsible to be entruated to
tbe discretion and administration of one com-
the police forco be vested in a board of three
commieaiouera Upon this point some very
important evidenco was given at that time
AroongBt the advocates for the proposed re
form was Captain now Sir Charles M Mahon,
who may be Bild to havo organised the
present police force of the colony In his
evidence before the committee, he ia reported
to havo said -'My opinion noir ia aa it
always nae »hen I occupied tho position
of chief commissioner myself After I had
brought the police into a slate of organisa
tion, and the country, or rather the popula
tion, was beginning to bo more settled, I
thought that the best eystom of management
would bo under a board of commissioners
tndiecoinmended that totheChief Secretary
Hia opinion waa supported by the testimony
ef many other witnesses, but Captain
Standish, who waa then chief commissioner,
tion _he experience of tbo last 20 years
vv IIB altogether in error It ia in tho opinion
of jour ci mmiesioners highly impolitic to
\e*t the entire cllicial control of so vist and
important a blanch of the public service in
the banda of u Bingle individual bpon this
point tho witneeeea examined beforo jour
commiBBioners wero nlnioBt unanimous It
was urged on the one hand that by auch a
modification of existing nrrangementa there
was lets likelihood of mjuatice being ínllictod
reality Btrcit,then rather than weaken the
lim ds of the chief commissioner, and effec
lunllj guard against external interference
with the cílairs of the department The pre
sent chief commissioner IB Blrongly lmproaaed
with tho advantage of euch a chango It
sermed to bo a eettlcd conviction in tho
polis, the facilities allowed for its propaga-
III. - BOARD OF THREE COMMISSIONERS.
of the report of the select committee
of the Assembly which sat during the ses-
sions of 1861-2-3. It was as follows :-
"Your committee have inquired into and
considered the present system of police
management under one commissioner, and
whether it would be more desirable to vest
the management of the force in a board of
the affairs of the Police department under a
board of three commisesioners would be con-
ducted with greater efficiency, impartiality,
of the force than is possible under the pre-
sent system. The affairs also of the Polrce
various, and responsible to be entrusted to
the discretion and administration of one com-
the police force be vested in a board of three
commissioners." Upon this point some very
important evidence was given at that time.
Amongst the advocates for the proposed re-
form was Captain, now Sir Charles M'Mahon,
who may be said to have organised the
present police force of the colony. In his
evidence before the committee, he is reported
to have said -'My opinion now is as it
always was when I occupied the position
of chief commissioner myself. After I had
brought the police into a state of organisa-
tion, and the country, or rather the popula-
tion, was beginning to be more settled, I
thought that the best system of management
would be under a board of commissioners,
and recommended that to the Chief Secretary."
His opinion waa supported by the testimony
of many other witnesses, but Captain
Standish, who was then chief commissioner,
tion. The experience of the last 20 years
was altogether in error. It is in the opinion
of your commissioners highly impolitic to
vest the entire official control of so vast and
important a branch of the public service in
the bands of a single individual. Upon this
point the witnesses examined before your
commissioners were almost unanimous. It
was urged on the one hand that by such a
modification of existing arangements there
was less likelihood of injustice being iínflicteod
reality strengthen rather than weaken the
hands of the chief commissioner, and effec-
tually guard against external interference
with the affairs of the department. The pre-
sent chief commissioner is strongly lmpressed
with the advantage of such a change. It
seemed to be a settled conviction in the

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