HC Deb 24 May 1928 vol 217 cc2042-3
3. Mr. DAY

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department the number of sittings which have been held by the Street Offences Committee, and when the Report is expected?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir William Joynson-Hicks)

The Committee has held 19 meetings. I understand that the Chairman has hopes that the Report will be ready about October.

Mr. DAY

Can the Home Secretary say what number of witnesses have been examined by this Committee?

Sir W. JOYNSON-KICKS

58.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Are we to understand that more sittings of this Committee are being held? Did not the Home Secretary intend to refer the case of the two police constables who were under examination by him for the original case in Eyde Park, in which Sir Leo Money and Miss Savidge were acquitted, to this Committee?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

In regard to the first supplementary question, I hope it will not be necessary for the Committee to sit and take evidence again. I hope the Committee will be able to proceed with the consideration of their report, which I am anxiously awaiting. As regards the second supplementary question, I have taken no steps in that direction.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Has the right hon. Gentleman abandoned that idea., because my recollection is that he informed the House that that would be the procedure?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

No, I do not think so. I cannot remember every question that has been put to me on this matter—

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

It was in the Debate, I think.

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I do not think I said that. There were various ideas as to how we would deal with the matter, but I certainly arrived at no decision.

Mr. HAYES

Has the right hon. Gentleman abandoned the idea of finally inquiring into the case?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Oh, no.