§ 61. Mr. Sorensenasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of any similar suggestion to that of the formation of a junior criminal investigation department brought to the notice of a chief constable by the watch committee chairman of a county borough; whether police or municipal authorities have been given power or authority to implement any such proposals; and whether he will undertake to disapprove any initiative in that direction?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonThe answer to the first two parts of the Question is in the negative. As regards the last part, very cogent arguments would have to be advanced before I could be persuaded of the desirability of such an innovation.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the suggestion has already been received with dismay in many parts of the country, and will he not take steps to prevent any kind of dangerous innovation of this character?
§ Mr. MorrisonIn the absence of more precise particulars, I do not think I ought to say more than I have said.
§ Mr. SorensenHas not the right hon. Gentleman got those particulars already?
§ Mr. MorrisonNo, Sir, not fully. I have given my hon. Friend a not discouraging answer, and I think he ought to be reasonably happy.