§ 23. Mr. COCKSasked the Home Secretary whether it is now the practice for the Director of Public Prosecutions to seek his approval before applying for process against individuals under the statute of Edward III. or the equivalent common law provisions; and under what statutory authority he acts in giving such approval?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThere is not, and never has been, any such practice as the hon. Member suggests. It is, however, well established that in a case involving questions of public policy the views of the appropriate Minister on that aspect of the case would be ascertained before proceedings were initiated.
§ Sir J. GILMOURNo, Sir. There has been no departure from the previous practice in this case.