§ 32. Mr. Manderasked the Home Secretary the present practice throughout the country with regard to the conduct of prosecutions by police officers; and wheher he will endeavour to arrange that wherever practicable prosecutions shall, as a rule, be conducted by solicitors?
§ Sir S. HoareMany of the cases heard in courts of summary jurisdiction are of a simple character and it is a common practice for a police officer, as informant, to conduct the prosecution. I believe that it is usual to employ a solicitor in any case which is thought likely to involve special difficulty, but to do so as a normal rule would be unnecessary and would impose a substantial burden on police funds, and I do not see my way to make any suggestion to police authorities in the matter.
§ Mr. ManderDoes not the Home Secretary feel that it is undesirable for the police to prosecute in cases where there is any complication?
§ Sir S. HoareIf the hon. Member will read my answer he will see that I have said that in cases where there is complication somebody is instructed.