§ 26. Mr. KINGasked the Secretary for Scotland whether John McLean, now undergoing imprisonment for an offence under the Defence of the Realm Regulations, is the person who for several years previously conducted an educational movement among workers in the Glasgow district; if so, whether he will inquire into the work of education and organisation done by McLean before and during the War; and, if the result of such inquiry is to show that McLean exerted an ameliorating and enlightening influence, whether any mitigation of his sentence can be recommended?
The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND {Mr. McKinnon Wood)I regret that the results of my inquiries do not justify my adopting the suggestion of my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. KINGHas the right hon. Gentleman given his personal attention to this matter, and is he aware that this man has got a very high reputation and an estimable character?
Mr. McKINNON WOODI would remind my hon. Friend that at the trial Mr. McLean put that plea forward and brought evidence in support of it, but the verdict was given after it had been presented.
§ Mr. KINGWas it by order or at the instigation of the right hon. Gentleman that the lady who has been interesting herself in this man's case with a view to mitigating the punishment has just had a domiciliary visit and all her papers taken away?