§ 39. Mr. W. BAKERasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the evidence given at the London Sessions during the appeal of Sir Basil Thomson; and whether he will consider the desirability of using to a far greater extent the opportunities which police officers have of knowing the character and circumstances of women such as the co-defendant in that case, for the purpose of befriending and helping them?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSWithin the scope of their duty, Metropolitae police officers do all in their power to help women of the class referred to who desire help, but it is well known that many such women would resent police interference. Every Metropolitan constable—man or woman—has a pocket directory, with a list of places where women of different ages and of different mode of life can find shelter and friendly aid, and advice of this description is frequently given.
§ 40. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Home Secretary whether he will inquire into the state of public order in certain of the London parks, which are open to the public after dark, with a view to better regulation and supervision?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have had this matter under my consideration upon several occasions. I am satisfied that the Regulations made for securing public 1231 order in the parks are sufficient, and that the police do everything in their power to enforce them.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWill not the right hon. Baronet consider either an earlier closing of certain London parks to pedestrians, or some better system of control, to prevent a repetition of these cases?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSIn the first place, I have no power to close the parks, and personally I should deprecate the removal of a benefit to the whole community merely because of one or two unfortunate incidents.
§ Mr. HAYESWill the right hon. Baronet consider the question of improving the lighting in the parks, which is the great thing?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThat is not under my Department.
§ Mr. HAYESWill the right hon. Baronet consider that matter with a view to recommendations being made, as in fact was done some years ago with regard to the Outer and Inner Circles in Regent's Park?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSIf the police inform me that absence of light is a, cause of misconduct, I will, of course, communicate with the responsible authority.