HC Deb 23 May 1944 vol 400 cc568-9
42. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what were the results of the raid made by the police on Tuesday, 16th May, at the Lyndhurst Club, Finchley Road, London; whether he proposes to announce the names of the persons who were at the time frequenting the club; and whether he can indicate the course of action to he taken against the officers and the members or visitors concerned.

39. Mr. Thorne

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he can give any information about the 42 arrests at Lyndhurst Club, Finchley Road, St. John's Wood, which was being used as a gaming club; and what action he intends taking about the matter.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Peake)

This club was entered by the police under the Gaming Act, 1845, on 16th May, when six principals and 36 other persons frequenting the premises were arrested. At Marylebone police court the following day the principals were remanded until 31st May and the frequenters until 31st August. As the case is still before the court it would not be proper for me to make any further statement.

Mr. E. Walkden

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that there will be no attempt made to suppress the names of certain persons who figure prominently in big business circles in the City? [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] Quite frankly, there are fears and misgivings that that might happen.

Mr. Peake

I can only say that the names of the defendants in this case, as in all other cases, are available to the Press by access to the charge sheet at the police court in the usual way.