§ 74. Sir W. BYLESasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the fine of £10 inflicted on Mr. C. J. Bandock, at the Hyde Police Court on Friday week, for a speech in which he advocated that peace should be secured by negotiation; whether he is aware that the evidence given against him was police evidence given from memory and not from notes, and that the incriminating sentences were quotations from the "Contemporary Review" and the "Manchester Guardian"; and whether, if he considers on reviewing the evidence that the bounds of legitimate political criticism were not passed by the defendant, he will exercise his power and have the fine remitted?
Mr. SAMUELMy attention has not previously been called to this case. I have asked the justices for a report, but there has not been time for me to receive it.
§ Sir W. BYLESAre these proceedings taken under the Defence of the Realm Act? If so, does the right hon Gentleman think the realm will much longer be worth defending?
Mr. SAMUELI cannot say under what Statute they have been taken, as I have not yet received the report from the justices.