HC Deb 28 March 1939 vol 345 c1875
33. Mr. Mathers

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he now is in a position to make a statement regarding the) findings of the jury at the Linlithgow Sheriff Court on 28th February, anent the death of William Gilmour Girvan; and to say what action he is taking on the jury's recommendations?

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Colville)

I am informed that the relatives of the deceased man have made a claim for damages against the West Lothian County Council, the chief constable and one of the constables in the West Lothian police force. I regret that I am unable to make a statement pending the disposal of this claim.

Mr. Mathers

Was not the last recommendation of the jury one which called for a general order with regard to leaving prisoners in the position of the man who died, and does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the position calls for a general order to all prisons?

Mr. Colville

I am considering whether my Department can take any action in the matter, but I cannot make a full statement on the case itself at the present time.

Mr. Mathers

I can quite understand that.