§ 9. Brigadier-General SPEARSasked the Home Secretary whether he can now state his decision with regard to the repeal of Section 4 of the Vagrancy Act, which makes sleeping out a penal offence?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI recognise that the provision to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers is open to criticism in its present form, and I am investigating the question whether the circumstances in which proceedings are necessary or desirable can be more closely defined. I hope it may be possible to find means of limiting the application of the provision so as to ensure that proceedings shall only be taken in cases where action is desirable in the interests of the community or of the individual concerned.
§ Brigadier-General SPEARSWhen are we likely to be given this decision? Does the right hon. Gentleman recall that he gave a somewhat similar answer about three months ago and can he now state definitely when something will be done?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe difficulty is to find the exact legal words which will cover this point. That matter is being 1455 carefully considered, but I cannot give any definite assurance now as to when any change or any legislation which may have to follow, will be introduced.