§ 23. Mr. MESSERasked the Home Secretary if he is aware that the principal witness in the trial of Mr. George Smellie, who was sentenced at the Middlesex Sessions in 1919, has sworn an affidavit contradicting the evidence she gave at the trial; and if he will in quire into the case with the view to the granting of a free pardon?
§ Mr. CLYNESAs I have already informed my hon. Friend, a copy of the affidavit to which he refers has been considered, and I have found no grounds for any action.
§ Mr. MESSERMay I ask what evidence is required to move the Home Office to have an inquiry into this case?
§ Mr. CLYNESIf there be any evidence other than that in the affidavit referred to, I should be glad to receive it and to consider it, but it does not follow that if I receive evidence I should necessarily be moved.