HC Deb 07 October 1941 vol 374 cc816-7
8. Mr. Silverman

asked the Secretary of State for War in what circumstances 3386493 Private J. Grogan met his death; whether he died while under detention by military police; whether his death was the result of violence committed upon him by the guards responsible for his safety; whether his relatives were represented, or had the opportunity to be represented, at the subsequent inquest; and whether he will now order a general inquiry into all the circumstances?

Captain Margesson

The finding of the coroner's court was that the soldier in question died by justifiable homicide as a result of injuries received from military policemen whilst attempting to escape from custody. So far as I am aware the relatives were not represented at the inquest, but my hon. Friend will appreciate that the arrangements for an inquest are not a matter for the military authorities. The most searching inquiries have been instituted by the military authorities and the civil police into the circumstances of this case, and, while I have the greatest sympathy with the soldier's relatives, there is no reason to suppose that further inquiries would bring any new facts to light.

Mr. Silverman

Is the right, hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that 11 soldiers stationed at this point wrote to the parents of the dead soldier, protesting, and can he say whether at any of the investigations the evidence of these 11 soldiers was taken?

Captain Margesson

I understand that these II soldiers afterwards denied that they had understood what they had signed

Mr. Silverman

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the inquest took place within less than 24 hours of the death, and that the parents could not possibly have had any opportunity of being represented at the inquiry?

Captain Margesson

As I said in my answer, I think my hon. Friend will appreciate that the arrangements for inquests are not a matter for the military authorities.

Mr. Silverman

Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman agree that in any case, where a person has died as the result of the action of his guardians, it is in the public interest, and as much in the interests of the Army as anyone else, that there should be the fullest and most public inquiry possible?

Captain Margesson

I agree, and I have every confidence also in the coroner.

Mr. Silverman

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I propose to raise the matter again.