HC Deb 27 April 1920 vol 128 c1023
44. Mr. LYLE

asked the Home Secretary if his attention has been called to the remarks of a Judge of the High Court at the Old Bailey against the trying of certain cases in camera; whether he declared that it was in the public interest that such secret trials should be abolished; and whether he will take the matter into consideration

99. Lieut.-Colonel Sir J. NORTON-GRIFFITHS

asked the Attorney-General if his attention has been drawn to Mr. Justice Darling's statement in the Central Criminal Court on Thursday, the 10th April, asserting that it would be to the public advantage that the system of trying cases in secret should cease; and if he will state what steps, if any, he intends to take in the matter?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir G. Hewart)

Yes, I read the remarks of the learned Judge, and they are now under consideration. I cannot say more at present than that legislation will be necessary if it be decided to change the existing law and practice.

Mr. BILLING

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in the event of this rule being sanctioned, the public will lose the greater part of our judicial humour?