33. Sir J. D. REESasked the Home Secretary if his attention has been called to the case of Reginald Hunt, fireman, sentenced to a month's imprisonment with hard labour on a charge brought against him by a member of the Women's Patrol who, when in plain clothes, had entered into conversation with him in Epping Forest, and stated that he subsequently seized her arm; and whether the action of the prosecutrix in this case is in accordance with the instructions of the Home Office?
§ Mr. SHORTTThis policewoman and another were sent to patrol in and about Epping Forest on account of complaints that women were constantly being molested by men in that neighbourhood. She did not enter into conversation with the prisoner; but was accosted by him. He made a suggestion to her, and took her by the arm. She was acting in accordance with instructions, and there was nothing in her conduct open to any censure.
Sir J. D. REESUnless the record discloses something more serious than is reported in the Press, does he think it is quite right that a policewoman in plain petticoats should answer a man, at any rate, who speaks to her, and then subsequently hand him over, because he endeavours to improve the occasion and seizes her arm?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe Court heard the whole of the evidence and was satisfied.
Sir J. D. REESWill the right hon. Gentleman see that the facts are made public, because on the record of the case so little was shown against the man's conduct—nothing but seizing the woman's arm?
§ Mr. SHORTTI have received no complaint except from the hon. Member.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYWill the system of agents provocateurs be continued?
§ Mr. SHORTTIt has not begun to exist.