HC Deb 05 June 1935 vol 302 cc1870-1
Mr. MORGAN(by Private Notice)

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to a case at Marylebone Police Court where a girl, Evelyn Gibbs, aged 20, charged with obtaining a meal valued at ls. 8d. without the means to pay for it, was sentenced to six months' imprisonment, and whether, as this was a first offence and leave to appeal has so far been refused, he will consider remitting or reducing the sentence in this case?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I understand that notice of appeal has been given in this case, and I cannot intervene in any way in a case which is pending before the court.

Mr. MORGAN

Do I understand that an appeal was made by the Society of Friends or someone outside as this young girl is not in a position to be able to make the appeal herself, and will the Home Secretary take care to see that she receives proper legal assistance, if necessary, to make the appeal?

Sir J. GILMOUR

All the information I have in this case goes to show that the appeal has been made and is in order, and until that is decided I can express no opinion.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Is this girl out on bail pending the appeal?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I cannot say.