§ 1. Mr. McGOVERNasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if his attention has been drawn to the conviction of Edward Corcoran, of Glasgow, charged with housebreaking, in whose case one of the judges on appeal was in favour of quashing the conviction; and if he will inquire into the case with a view to remission of the sentence?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Major Sir Archibald Sinclair)The appeal referred to, which was based on a question of law, was dismissed, and I find no ground which would justify me in advising any remission of sentence.
§ Mr. HANNONOn a point of Order. We had an understanding in this House many Sessions ago that questions affect- 186 ing individual cases should not be brought to the House, but should be discussed between the Minister and the Member of Parliament affected. Why should we waste the time of the House in discussing individual merits?
§ Mr. SPEAKERI come across many cases in which questions are asked about individuals.
§ Mr. McGOVERNEvidence was given at the trial of this man that, he had been previously convicted. Was not that a dangerous precedent and did it not constitute an unfair trial? In view of these circumstances, will the right hon. Gentleman not take some action?
§ Sir A. SINCLAIRThat is exactly the question which was considered by the Court of Appeal. The judges were of opinion that the conviction ought to be upheld. The sentence was never reviewed. It was the conviction that was upheld.