§ Sir K. WOOD(by Private Notice) asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the considerable public apprehension concerning the recent conduct and procedure of certain Coroners' inquests, particularly in relation to the ancient and well established rights and liberties of the subject, and whether he can make any proposals or statement to the House in the matter?
§ Mr. CLYNESI am obliged to the right hon. Gentleman for his courtesy in giving me long notice of this question and thus affording me the opportunity of consulting with my noble Friend the Lord Chancellor and my hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General upon the legal aspects of the matter. As the right hon. Gentleman is no doubt aware, the law relating to Coroners' inquests was revised and brought up to date by a comprehensive measure passed only three years ago. The view in which the authorities I have consulted concur is that it would be a mistake so soon after the revision of the law to consider making another fundamental alteration because of what has happened in one or two quite exceptional cases. The provision under which Coroners pursue their inquiries up to the point of enabling the jury to find the persons, if any, who have been guilty of murder or manslaughter embodies the ancient common law of England. Having regard to the number of inquests held every year—over 30,000 in 1927—the criticisms of the working of this provision have been remarkably few, and on the other hand there have been very many cases in which its value has been clearly demonstrated. I propose, therefore, as at present advised, to take no action in the matter.
§ Sir K. WOODI beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment to-day.