1. Honoured—to open new Cannon Row.
2. Appropriate to year of 400th Anniversary of Westminster—City which contains within it
The Monarchy
The Church
Parliament
Government
Ambassadors to the UK
as well as its many residents and tourists.
All those within your sphere of activity.
As a resident involved in more than one activity, I can testify p2
to the courtesy, professionalism & dedication of your officers.
3. In the prime duty of safeguarding liberty yours is the most important task of all.
For unless the law-abiding citizens are protected, and the law breakers apprehended, there is no security, there is no freedom.
4. This building—the Curtis Green Building p3
has an illustrious history. After its completion in 1940, Lord Mountbatten occupied it as Head of Combined Operations.
The site is appropriate for a police station. Reaching back into history the land on which it is built is alleged to have been granted in 978 A.D. by King Edgar of England to the Scottish King—none less than one King Kenneth. p4
To-day it's a judicious mixture of old & new in its dignified extension and its interior equipped with all the latest technology—so important to your work.
Architect & Chief Engineer are to be congratulated.
5. In 1900 when the first Cannon Row was opened the two married Inspectors received 10s and 5/6 a week respectively. p5
The constables 3s a week (2) and the 98 men under training the grand sum of 1s a week. [end p1]
They were entitled to say “A policeman's lot is not so hot” .
Since then things have improved a little and in opening this station I should like to express our gratitude & admiration to all who serve here and wish them well in this new building.