§ 29. Major Milnerasked the Home Secretary whether he is now able to make any statement in regard to the representations made to him in favour of remission of the sentence of 12 months' imprisonment passed upon Hugh Phillips at Leeds assizes on 9th March?
§ Sir J. SimonPhillips pleaded guilty and the responsibility for the decision as to the length of sentences of imprisonment rests with the Court and not with the Home Office. I have thought it right, however, in view of the youth of Phillips and the exceptional character of the case, to communicate with the Judge in connection with the consideration of the exercise of the prerogative of clemency. I should not feel justified in recommending immediate remission of the sentence. I have come to the conclusion, after reviewing all the circumstances, that the considerations which warranted the imposition by the Court of an exemplary 1229 penalty will not preclude me from recommending at a future date a reduction of the term, and I intend to consider the case again when a further portion of the sentence has been completed.
§ Major MilnerI am greatly obliged to the right hon. Gentleman, and I would like to thank him for the sympathetic and careful consideration which I know he has given to this case.