§ MR. HOWARD VINCENT (Sheffield, Central),asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, If the allegations of blackmailing made on the 5th July, 1887, against the Metropolitan Police Force in general, and against the Clapham Division in particular, by the hon. Member for Barrow-in-Furness (Mr. Caine) have been fully inquired into, and with what result?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Mr. MATTHEWS) (Birmingham, E)Yes, Sir; inquiry was made by the Chief Commissioner into these allegations of blackmailing against the police. Endeavours were made to ascertain from the hon. Member for Barrow-in-Furness, and other persons likely to possess information, any specific facts in support of those allegations upon which inquiry could proceed. The result was that no such facts were elicited, nor was any evidence forthcoming to substantiate the charges against the police.
§ MR. CAINE (Barrow-in-Furness)In consequence of the reply of the Home Secretary, I beg to give Notice that on going into Committee of Supply on the Vote for the Metropolitan Police I shall call attention to this question.