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| THE POLICE COMMISSION. WEDNESDAY, AUG. 10. The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) Thursday 11 August 1881, page 6 News | 1 | RonnieLand 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 | 1 | RonnieLand 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 | 1 | RonnieLand 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 | 1 | RonnieLand 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 | 1 | RonnieLand 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 08:27:05.0 | the 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 08:17:04.0 | of 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 08:11:12.0 | question 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 03:04:36.0 | general 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 02:56:01.0 | be 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 02:50:51.0 | to 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 03:24:41.0 | Buitnbility 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 03:18:39.0 | minda 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 03:06:22.0 | polis, 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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