HC Deb 16 May 1933 vol 278 cc171-2
3. Mr. McGOVERN

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if his attention has been drawn to the case of Helen Miller, who was charged before Sheriff Berry at Justiciary Buildings, Glasgow, on Tuesday, 9th May, with concealment of pregnancy and sentenced to six months' imprisonment; and if, in view of the fact that she was 10 weeks in prison awaiting trial and the suffering she has undergone, he will inquire into the case with a view to remission of the sentence?

Sir G. COLLINS

My attention had not previously been drawn to this case. I have made inquiry, and am informed that an application has been lodged under the Criminal Appeal (Scotland) Act, 1926, for leave to appeal against the sentence. The case is, therefore, still sub judice. I am informed that the Crown will take steps to expedite the hEarlng of the appeal.

Mr. McGOVERN

Could not the right hon. Gentleman, pending the appeal, as an act of clemency, release this girl and also give an undertaking to order an inquiry why it was not discovered, although she was a month in hospital, that she was eight months pregnant?

Sir G. COLLINS

I can make no comment on the case at the moment, but the hon. Member is, no doubt, aware that it is open to the appellant to apply for liberation on bail pending appeal.

Mr. McGOVERN

Could not the right hon. Gentleman release her on his own initiative?

Sir G. COLLINS

I have no such power. The matter is coming before the Criminal Court of Appeal for their consideration.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Could not the right hon. Gentleman consult the Lord Advocate with a view to making bail as easy as possible? The girl it sure to appear, and that is what the Crown authorities are after.

Sir G. COLLINS

The Crown can take steps to expedite the hEarlng of the appeal, but the question of bail is outside my power.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Could not the right hon. Gentleman ask the Lord Advocate in the meantime to expedite the hEarlng of an application for bail, and place it at the lowest possible amount?

Sir G. COLLINS

I cannot interfere in a matter of justice.