§ Lieut.-Colonel POWNALL(by Private Notice) asked the Home Secretary why it has been necessary to keep John Syme under such close police observation, and what is the reason for the recent proceedings against him?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe reason is that Syme has on several occasions threatened to molest the King and members of the Royal Family, and has written letters to His Majesty threatening annoyance. A speech containing threats against His Majesty is the ground for the recent proceedings against him.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODAs Syme is continually coming out of prison under the "Cat and Mouse" Act, is he not as dangerous on these occasions as if he were released altogether?
§ Mr. MORGAN JONESWill not the right hon. Gentleman have him examined by three Harley Street specialists?
§ Mr. SHORTTIt is a fact that he is very dangerous when he is out, and the 584 alternative is between letting him die in prison of hunger-striking or letting him out. He is a very dangerous man and very difficult to deal with.