HC Deb 17 June 1915 vol 72 cc776-7
42. Mr. KELLAWAY

asked the Attorney-General if he will state the number of persons in the United Kingdom who have been prosecuted for making statements calculated to prejudice recruiting; the number of such prosecutions having relation to written and to oral statements, respectively; and the number of convictions?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir E. Carson)

In the Metropolis no criminal proceedings have been instituted for the making of statements calculated to prejudice recruiting. Official representations have from time to time been successful in staying the publication of matters which might be construed as a direct statement likely to prejudice recruiting. I have no present information as to the number or results of cases which may have been heard in England outside the Metropolis, but if the hon. Member desires the information I will do my best to obtain it.

Mr. KELLAWAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to say whether the representations which have been made have included any representation to Lord Northcliffe?

Sir E. CARSON

I cannot say.

Sir J. D. REES

Does the privilege of Parliament protect a Member in making such statements?

Sir E. CARSON

I never heard that that was alleged.