HC Deb 23 February 1911 vol 21 cc2078-9
Mr. TOUCHE

asked whether he is aware of the effect caused in the police force by the dismissal of Inspector Syme; and will he, therefore, publish or lay upon the Table of the House a full Report of the proceedings and evidence in the inquiry which resulted in such dismissal?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I have no reason to think that the dismissal of Inspector Syme has had such effect on the force as the hon. Member suggests. I believe the men generally appreciate the care and consideration with which the Commissioner deals with cases of misconduct in the force. It would be contrary to practice, and would, so far as I can see, serve no useful purpose, to lay on the Table the papers mentioned in the question. I shall be glad, however, to lay, if the hon. Member desires it, on the Table the judgment of the Commissioner which goes fully into the whole subject, and with which I concur.

Mr. REMNANT

As there is a considerable amount of feeling outside on this matter, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he has looked personally into this matter and is he satisfied that the course taken is justified?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Yes, I have indeed gone carefully into the matter myself. I have had long interviews with the Commissioner and also with ex-Inspector Syme. I very much regret to say that I see no chance whatever of altering the present position, which has grown out of small events, and has led to gross insubordination on the part of that officer.

Mr. TOUCHE

May I ask whether any part of the report of the proceedings, denied to Members of this House, has been communicated to any party outside?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I did communicate the judgment of the Commissioner to certain parties outside who took great interest in this particular case, because I thought they wanted to know what was said. I shall be glad to lay the judgment on the Table of the House.