§ 58. Mr. W. BENNETTasked the Home Secretary whether he will hold an inquiry into the circumstances attending the resignation of ex-Constable Hutchins from the M Division of the Metropolitan Police Force, in view of the fact that he was punished for making allegations against a sergeant to the effect that the latter had committed perjury against a prisoner who was sentenced to three months' hard labour and that this prisoner was, following inquiry, released from prison at the expiration of about five weeks of the three months?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThis case was the subject of careful inquiry in 1926 and I know of no reason for re-opening it. The grounds on which I advised the remission of a portion of the prisoner's sentence were entirely unconnected with the ex-constable's allegations.
§ Mr. BENNETTIs there no appeal for this man, except to yourself?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThat is quite true. This matter was inquired into and discussed in conjunction with Dr. Haden Guest, who was formerly a Member for an adjoining constituency of the hon. Member, nearly three years ago. As I announced my decision then, I am not prepared to re-open it now.
§ Mr. BENNETTYou are not prepared to re-open it under any circumstances on account of lapse of time?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI made my decision then. If the hon. Member can bring any fresh facts before me, they will be entitled to be considered, but, on the then facts, I adhere to my decision.
§ Commander OLIVER LOCKER-LAMPSONMay we know the reasons for the reduction of the sentence?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSSurely, my hon. and gallant Friend knows that after the events of 1926, when a very large number of men had been sent to 2075 prison, the clemency of the Crown was invoked and in all proper cases I reduced the sentences.