HC Deb 27 November 1930 vol 245 cc1479-80
36. Mr. HACKING

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the statement recently made by Mr. Justice McCardie in connection with the growth of perjury in the Courts; and whether he will draw the special attention of magistrates to the present laws of perjury with a view to their being more rigorously enforced?

Mr. CLYNES

I do not think it is either necessary or desirable that the Executive should in this matter approach any class of Courts. The learned Judge's observations have already aroused interest, and I have no doubt that they will be carefully considered by all concerned.

Mr. HACKING

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree with the views expressed by the Judge; and what is the objection to circularising magistrates?

Mr. CLYNES

I must not express my opinion on the views delivered by the Judge, but I think that the publicity given to the case is more likely to be effective than a circular sent to particular Courts.

Mr. E. BROWN

Are we to take it that the right hon. Gentleman implies that Judges' silly talk about politics is also worthy of grave consideration?

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