HC Deb 07 April 1921 vol 140 cc425-6
12. Major M. WOOD

asked the Chief Secretary whether, if further evidence is produced in any case of death in which a military court of inquiry, sitting in lieu of a coroner's inquest, has returned a verdict of murder by some person or persons unknown, or of justifiable homicide in cases where attempting to escape or resisting arrest is alleged, he will give orders for the reopening of the inquiry?

Mr. HENRY

The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief has power to order a court of inquiry in lieu of inquest to reassemble in any case where he thinks this necessary, and where any evidence which might lead to the conviction of a murderer is forthcoming subsequent to the closing of a court of inquiry the case would always be further considered with a view to bringing the suspected person to trial.

Major WOOD

Have these powers been exercised?

Mr. HENRY

Not so far as I am aware, for the reason that the evidence has not been brought before the authorities.