HC Deb 25 July 1934 vol 292 cc1763-4
12. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the proceedings in the Stavsky case, including the judgment in the Supreme Court, have been or will be read by the legal adviser to the Colonial Office?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister)

I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to the right hon. and gallant Gentleman on the 14th of June.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

In view of the obiter dicta of the Chief Justice that Stavsky would be found guilty in a British court of justice, would it not be advisable to have the opinion of the legal adviser to the Colonial Office at least on that disputed point?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I stated plainly in the answer to which I have referred what is the purpose and function of the Colonial Office in connection with judgments which have been given. I am sure it would be very improper for me to comment upon judgments.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

I agree it would be improper for the right hon. Gentleman to make any comments, but is it certain that the case will be read through by his legal advisers so that he may receive from them comments from legal minds trained in British legal work?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

That is rather a reflection on the Chief Justice of Palestine who presided over the case.

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