§ Mr. DOBBIE(forMr. N. MACLEAN) asked the Home Secretary whether any action has been taken to investigate or refute the charges made by Leopold Harris on 3rd December, at Bow Street police court, that he had bribed important officers at Scotland Yard?
§ Major G. DAVIESThese charges have been exhaustively investigated by the Commissioner of Police, who has had the advantage of assistance and advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions. In the result it has not been possible to obtain evidence upon which it would be justifiable to take any action.
§ Mr. DOBBIE(forMr. MACLEAN) asked the Home Secretary the number of police of all ranks who have been dismissed or suspended from duty since 1st January, 1935; and whether he can state the reasons for any of the dismissals or suspensions?
§ Major DAVIESIn the Metropolitan Police Force 27 men have been dismissed or required to resign as an alternative since.1st January, 1935, and 43 men (including 23 of those dismissed or required to resign) have been suspended from duty. The action taken arose in all cases out of charges under the Discipline Code laid down in the Police RegulationS. My right hon. Friend regrets that he has no such recent information for other forces.
§ Mr. THORNECan the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether the men in question have a right of appeal?
§ Major DAVIESI will refer that question to my right hon. Friend.