§ 39. Colonel DAYasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether in releasing Oscar Slater, he proposes to set up an inquiry into the evidence produced at the trial?
§ Sir J. GILMOURHad the conviction in this case taken place after 31st October, 1926, I should have had power to remit questions regarding it to the Court of Criminal Appeal under the provisions of Section 16 of the Criminal Appeal (Scotland) Act, 1926. If I can obtain from Parliament the legislation necessary to extend the Act so as to 819 enable me to refer this case under the provisions mentioned, I am prepared to take that course. A single Clause Bill would be all that would be necessary, but at this stage of the Session, I could not hope to get it unless the House is prepared to pass the Measure by general consent and without discussion.
§ Mr. RAMSAY MacDONALDMay I ask, arising out of that question, whether in view of the somewhat unfortunate position in which this case has been left, a very special attempt might not be made through the usual channels to arrange for the passing of a Bill? I ask that question specially.
§ Mr. HARDIEOn a point of Order. This question deals with the relation between the Secretary of State for Scotland and a released prisoner. Last week I put down a question in relation to a prisoner now in Glasgow who was put in prison because he refused to go to Barr-hill court house, but that question was twice refused at the Table. Seeing this question on the Paper, I should like to know upon what grounds my question was refused.
§ Mr. SPEAKERSo far as I recollect, the question submitted by the hon. Member was not of the same nature as this question; but I will look at it again.
§ Sir J. GILMOURIn reply to the right hon. Gentleman the Leader of the Opposition, so far as the Government are concerned they welcome the suggestion he has made.
§ Mr. NAYLORIs it intended to pay Slater any compensation for wrongful imprisonment?