HC Deb 08 June 1932 vol 266 cc1931-2
36. Mr. MACLEAN (for Mr. D. GRAHAM)

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if his attention has been called to the complaints made at the Kilbirnie riot trial of unnecessary batoning of men and women by the police; whether he is aware that these complaints were made by reputable members of the community who did not form part of the deputation to the public assistance committee; and will he institute an inquiry with a view to clearing the police of the charges made against them?

Sir A. SINCLAIR

I am aware that in the course of the recent trial in Kilmarnock Sheriff Court of nine men charged with disorderly and riotous con- duct at Kilbirnie on the 8th February, allegations were made against the police by certain witnesses. I am informed that although these witnesses were not members of the deputation to the public assistance committee, they were members of the crowd on the evening of the 8th February. After consideration of the proceedings at the trial and of reports which I have obtained, I am satisfied that no further action on my part is necessary.

Mr. MACLEAN

May we take it that every individual who was present where these disturbances took place and might not form part of the crowd or take part in the disturbances has been considered as an individual whose word cannot be accepted, and will he therefore make further inquiry to see whether any definite statements alleged later against the police are not accurate?

Sir A. SINCLAIR

I want to make it clear that they were actually part of the riotous crowd, according to my information, but that their statements were made in court to the sheriff and that, in spite of their statements, the sheriff found the charges proved against the men concerned. If, however, my hon. Friend is dissatisfied, it is open to him and to others who may be dissatisfied to ask the Procurator-Fiscal to take up the case in the ordinary way.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Has my right hon. Friend had any complaint about the conduct of the police in Glasgow on Saturday in defending the two hon. Members opposite?

Mr. KIRKWOOD

It was Sunday!