§ 54. Mr. MARCUSasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that recently the Scottish verdict of not proven was returned in a criminal case tried in an English court of law; and if he has considered the advisability of taking the necessary steps to make such a verdict part of the law of England?
§ Mr. SHORTMy right hon. Friend has seen a press report. The learned judge directed the entry of a verdict of not guilty. My right hon. Friend is not aware of any general desire in this country for a change in the law, and he could not consider the question of initiating legislation on the matter unless there was evidence of such a desire.