§ 25. Mr. LOGANasked the home Secretary whether he is aware that Richard Hetherington has been three times remanded by the Shap magistrates, Westmorland, and on each occasion has had to be taken from Liverpool and back; and whether arrangements, can be made for the police to seek the concurrence of the defence in asking for longer periods of remand when it is not possible to complete the case for the prosecution quickly?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe charge in this case is one of murder. So far as I am aware, there is no power to order that a person charged with an indictable offence shall be remanded in custody for a longer period than eight days. Less time and inconvenience is involved by conveying the accused to Liverpool than to any other available prison, and I am informed that no objection to the remands has been raised by the defence, who has been consulted on every occasion.
§ Mr. LOGANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this has involved a journey of 180 miles for this man on four different occasions; that the pro- 1162 ceedings have only occupied about 10 minutes on each occasion when he was remanded; and does not the right hon. Gentleman think that a more convenient gaol than Liverpool could be found?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI have made inquiries on this point and, naturally, I would be glad if any more suitable arrangement could be made, but I have been advised that that is not the case.
§ Mr. MAXTONIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that a day out is very greatly appreciated by a man who is confined to prison?
§ Mr. LOGANAs this is a very important matter, may I say that the question that I am asking is not in reference to the feelings of the man; and may I press the right hon. Gentleman to say if it is not possible to find a nearer prison than Liverpool? I know there are nearer prisons.