§ 57. Mr. A. V. ALEXANDERasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the fact that the Director of Public Prosecutions has decided to withdraw the charge against Mr. Taylor, of 44, Albany Road, Roath Park, Cardiff, the secretary of Homekeepers' Federation, Limited, he is aware that this man has been remanded for over four months; and whether he proposes to take steps to prevent such delays in the administration of justice?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSMr. Taylor, of the Homekeepers' Federation, was arrested on 4th February, was released on 32 bail on 5th February, and remained on bail until 11th instant. The justices referred the matter to the Director of Public Prosecutions on 19th April; the extensive inquiries involved could not be completed before 28th May. On that date, the justices were informed, through their clerk, of the Director's decision, which was announced on 11th instant. The exceptional circumstances of the case do not afford grounds for general action.
§ Mr. ALEXANDERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this unworthy charge was kept hanging over this man's head for over four months, and then withdrawn, and that his counsel was not allowed to make any statement on his behalf before the Court?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI was not aware of the last statement, but I think it has been made quite clear to the.hon. Gentleman that, so far as I am concerned, we have done all we can. The Justices referred to the question to the Public Prosecutor and as soon as he went into it he cleared this man's character, and it was directed that the charge should be entered "withdrawn."
§ Mr. ALEXANDERDo the Government propose to indemnify him?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI am afraid that is not possible.