§ Mr. JOHN JOHNSON (for Mr. Burt)asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has 640 been called to a case tried before the magistrates at Blyth on 27th July in which H. Collins, J. Malone, J. Kelley, and R. Bolsbridge were charged with trespassing in a hayfield; whether he is aware that the defence set up was that the defendants saw a boat capsising with 12 occupants, and that their sole object in running across the field was to give aid to persons in danger; that a fine of 2s. 6d. each with 6d. damage was imposed; and whether he will take steps to have the fines and costs remitted?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Herbert Gladstone)I have inquired into the circumstances of this case, and I find that a defence upon the lines indicated in the question was set up. The justices, however, who had the whole of the evidence before them, were satisfied that wilful damage had been committed, and that the excuse put forward was untrue. There was no question of anyone being in the slightest danger. In the circumstances, I scarcely feel justified in taking any steps for the remission of the fines or compensation for damage. No costs were imposed.
§ Mr. GLADSTONEThat is a question of law. I understand there was wilful damage.