§ MR. ADDISON (Ashton-under-Lyne)asked Mr. Attorney General, Whether the Government propose to bring in, during this Session, a Bill enabling persons accused of crimes to give evidence in their own behalf?
§ THE ATTORNEY GENERAL (Sir RICHARD WEBSTER) (Isle of Wight)The hon. and learned Member is, doubtless, aware that a Bill dealing with the matter referred to in the Question was introduced on Thursday last in the House of Lords by Lord Bramwell, and received the support of the Lord Chancellor. Her Majesty's Government hope that the Bill in question may be carried through both Houses and become law during the present Session. I wish to add that Her Majesty's Government had prepared a Bill dealing with the matter.
§ MR. T. M. HEALY (Longford, N.)Did I understand the hon. and learned Gentleman to say that it is intended that this Bill shall apply to Ireland? Because, if so, I shall oppose it in the strongest manner?
§ [No reply.]