HC Deb 18 March 1948 vol 448 cc2274-5
40. Mr. Ronald Chamberlain

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will remit the sentence of six weeks' imprisonment passed at Lambeth Police Court on 5th March on Mr. A. D. Phillips, an ex-soldier, of Lowden Road, Herne Hill, for being in possession of two German automatic pistols without a firearms licence, in view of the fact that the pistols were brought as souvenirs without any ammunition from Germany in June, 1945, and Mr. Phillips was willing to take out a licence as soon as he knew one was required.

Mr. Ede

The time for appealing against this sentence will not expire until tonight, but I am making further inquiries, and will communicate with my hon. Friend.

Mr. Chamberlain

While thanking the Home Secretary for his reply, may I ask if he does not consider that this was an extremely harsh, and even a savage sentence, in view of the circumstances described in the Question?

Mr. Ede

It is not for me to comment on a sentence pronounced by the Court, especially when the time for appeal against it is still running. If there is a feeling such as my hon. Friend has indicated, the proper course would appear to be for an appeal to be entered.

Earl Winterton

On a point of Order. Is it in order for an hon. Member to comment on the sentence of a court when that sentence is under review?

Mr. Speaker

I was not quick enough. It was out of Order.