§ 27. Mr. BUCHANANasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has yet made inquiry into the case of Mr. J. McGhee, Warwick Street, Glasgow, about whom he was written to over 10 weeks ago, with a view to recommending the granting to him of a free pardon?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Sir Godfrey Collins)I have had inquiry made into Mr. McGhee's representation, and am satisfied that there is no ground to justify any action on my part. I am communicating with the hon. Member in reply to the letter which he previously addressed to me.
§ Mr. BUCHANANCan the Secretary of State give any reasons for the delay in dealing with this case. This man is innocent. Why cannot his Department take action to see that an innocent man is not treated unfairly?
§ Sir G. COLLINSAs the hon. Member knows, I have only recently been appointed to my high office, but since I have been at the Scottish Office I have 806 read carefully the whole correspondence in this matter, and, after due consideration of all the facts, I regret that I am unable to say anything further than is contained in my answer.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIn view of the answer of the right hon. Gentleman, give notice that I will raise the question at the earliest possible opportunity.