HC Deb 05 July 1916 vol 83 c1527
61. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the application of Mr. Robert Harding at Bow Street Police Court on 30th May for a summons against the Commissioner of Police for restoration of property; whether he is aware that a summons was refused on the ground that the Commissioner would not defend the action; and what he proposes to do in the circumstances?

Mr. SAMUEL

The notepaper in imitation of official War Office paper which was the subject of the charge against this man was destroyed by order of the Court. All other property taken from him by the police was restored to him on the expiration of his sentence. The second part of the question is not understood. The decision of the magistrate appears to have been right, and I do not propose to take any action in the matter.

Mr. HOGGE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the second part of the question is quite plain, that the Commissioner of Police refused to defend his action?