§ 42. Mr. Hugh Lawsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he has considered the Report of the inquiry conducted in October, 1943, by a special sub-committee of the West Riding Standing Joint Committee into certain matters concerning the West Riding constabulary; and if he intends setting up a public inquiry into the matter referred to.
§ Mr. H. MorrisonThe inquiry to which the hon. Member refers was concerned with matters for which the Standing Joint Committee, as police authority, were primarily responsible. I have, however, seen the Sub-Committee's Report, which was approved by the Standing Joint Committee, and am satisfied that they dealt fully and adequately with the issues referred to them. In these circumstances, I see no reason for any further inquiry or for any further action on my part.
§ Mr. LawsonMay I ask the Minister if he is aware that there is a certain amount of concern in the West Riding about this matter; and if he will not institute an inquiry so that public confidence in this force may be restored?
§ Mr. MorrisonNo, Sir. There is no need for me to intervene and hold an inquiry. I know what the Standing Joint Committee have done about the matter, and, on the whole, I am satisfied with what they did. In the meantime, the West Riding of Yorkshire are running their own show and I do not want to interfere with them.