§ 2. Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Minister of Labour how many persons are employed by his Department preparing cases and prosecuting persons for offences that 1482 were not punishable before the outbreak of war; and what is the annual cost involved in such prosecutions?
§ Mr. BevinDuring the 12 months ending 31st August, 1943, an average number of 15 persons was employed in the Solicitor's Department of the Ministry in preparing for prosecution cases of the type mentioned in the Question. The conduct of the prosecutions was entrusted to solicitors or counsel who were paid by fee. The total annual cost was approximately £40,000, of which about £34,000 represented fees. In addition, officers in other Departments of the Ministry, both at headquarters and in outstations, were concerned in the preparation of these cases, but it would not be possible without excessive cost to ascertain the particulars relating to these persons asked for in the Question.
§ Mr. DaviesDo any of these gentlemen who are prosecuting members of the working classes in this way at any time go down the mines to work?
§ Mr. BevinThat does not arise out of this Question. The hon. Member asked a specific Question, and he has had the facts in the answer.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs it not a fact that the only people who derive any profit from these proceedings are the lawyers?
§ Mr. Neil MacleanAre the lawyers who prepare the cases instructed to find out whether the girl's attention has been drawn to the fact that she has the right of appeal against a direction?
§ Mr. BevinThe Department itself issues definite instructions as to that before any proceedings are taken at all.