HC Deb 09 May 1912 vol 38 c583
Sir J. D. REES

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he will state the offences which may be described as political and in the case of which it is the duty of the Director of Public Prosecutions to prosecute?

Mr. McKENNA

I have nothing to add to my reply to the hon. Member's question of 3rd May, to which I must beg to refer him. The duty of the Director with regard to offences which may be described as political and with regard to offences which cannot be so described is the same.

Sir J. D. REES

May I ask whether the law of England recognises any such thing as a political offence, and if the answer is in the negative whether it is not desirable for the right hon. Gentleman to abstain from using a description which the law does not authorise?

Mr. McKENNA

I would be glad if the hon. Member would put the question to the Attorney-General.

Sir J. D. REES

I will be very glad to do so if I am permitted.