§ Mr. T. WILLIAMS(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that on Wednesday last, 20th October, at the Doncaster West Riding Court, two miners wives were charged with intimidation, and sentenced to one month's imprisonment, that they desired to appeal against the sentences, but the Bench demanded a deposit of £100 each; and as this demand was equal to depriving these women of their inalienable right of appeal, what steps has he taken, or intends to take to preserve this principle for poor defendants?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir William Joynson-Hicks)My attention has not previously been called to these cases, and I am in communication with the Clerk to the Justices. In the meantime, it would apear that the defendants would not be prejudiced by giving through their solicitor formal notice of appeal in writing to-day—which is the last day for doing so—in accordance with the Statute.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in all probability these women are already in prison because of the money bar which was placed against them in the Court on Wednesday last? In that case, will he be good enough to make special inquiries? Also, I would like to ask what steps are being taken to prevent a repetition of this occurrence?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSIf the hon. Member will do as I suggest—communicate with these women by telegram to-day and get them to give immediate notice of appeal (I think this is the last day) I will take all the necessary steps.