HC Deb 15 June 1910 vol 17 cc1309-10
Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the Attorney-General whether he will take steps in the public interest to cause a full inquiry to be made into the circumstances attending the failure of the Law Guarantee, Trusts, and Accident Society?

The SOLICITOR-GENERAL (Sir Rufus Isaacs)

It is not within the power of the Attorney-General to order such an inquiry as is described in the question. I understand this society is in voluntary liquidation under the supervision of the court, which, in my view, would not confer upon the court any power to compel such an inquiry unless the order for voluntary liquidation of the society showed there existed prima facie evidence of fraud against the individuals who could be made responsible for its management and control.

Mr. BOTTOMLEY

Will the hon. and learned Gentleman consider the question of instituting criminal proceedings against the legal luminaries more or less respon- sible for the management of this company and of taking the opinion of Sir Horace Avory on the subject?