HC Deb 06 July 1908 vol 191 cc1245-7
MR. A. DEWAR (Edinburgh, S.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been directed to the Report of the Police Commission, in which it is stated that Eva D'Angely was guilty of solicitation for the purpose of prostitution on 24th April, 1906, and that her arrest by Police-Constable Page was justified, and that the conduct of Police-Constable Page and of the other officers and constables concerned in the matter was discreet and correct; whether he is aware that in May, 1906, the conduct of Police-Constable Page, and the other officers and constables connected with the arrest, was severely censured in the Press, and by persons having incomplete information, that the officers and constables were unable to defend themselves against such unjust censure, and consequently suffered in character and reputation; can he state whether any of the newspapers or persons who inflicted injury upon these officers and constables who were performing a difficult duty correctly and with discretion, have offered them any reparation or apology; and, if not, will he consider whether he will take steps to obtain reparation and apology on their behalf.

MR. GLADSTONE

Yes, Sir, the facts are as stated. But the confidence of their superior officers at a time of considerable difficulty was never for one moment withdrawn from Police Constable Page and the other constables concerned. As regards the latter part of the Question, I should like to say that, however unjust were the charges against these officers, their fullest satisfaction must be in the complete vindication of their action and in the splendid tribute paid to the conduct, discipline, and efficiency of the Metropolitan Police Force generally in the careful and decisive Report of the Royal Commission.

MR. A. DEWAR

Is it not a fact that those constables were prohibited by the Regulations from defending themselves two years ago, and that they cannot, as advised, raise an action for damages for defamation without the consent of their superior officer? If they are advised to raise an action will the right hon. Gentleman see that consent is given?

MR. GLADSTONE

Of course, it was in the power of the constables themselves to take action two years ago, but they did not take action because of the appointment of the Royal Commission. It was thought right that any proceedings should be deferred until the Report of the Commission was received. It is now a question for the consideration of the police whether any action shall be taken.

MR. A. DEWAR

I should like to ask whether the measure of damage cannot be estimated in pounds shillings and pence? Have they not received complete exoneration from the moral aspect, but is there not a financial aspect which still remains?

MR. GLADSTONE

That would be a matter for the Courts.

MR. A. DEWAR

But will they get the right hon. Gentleman's consent to raise an action if so advised?

MR. GLADSTONE

I should prefer not to give an Answer at the present moment.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

Has the right hon. Gentleman yet received any apology at the Home Office to tender to the constables for Questions asked in this House by three hon. Gentlemen, the hon. Members for Blackpool, East Marylebone, and Chorley—in which, day after day, the most shocking imputations were made against these constables?

MR. GLADSTONE

As far as I know, nothing has been said or done by the hon. Members in question.