HC Deb 03 November 1949 vol 469 cc563-4
2. Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations when the hon. Member for Salford, South, is likely to receive the information for which he has asked regarding the detention of Joseph Price, of Salford, in a Melbourne mental hospital; and the circumstances of his detention.

Mr. Gordon-Walker

The United Kingdom High Commissioner in Australia has been asked to make inquiries, and to furnish information as soon as possible. There has not yet been time for his reply to be received.

Mr. Hardy

As it is about a month since this man was placed in this mental home, can my hon. Friend speed up the inquiry? The man's wife and parents are very anxious about this matter.

Mr. Gordon-Walker

I appreciate the anxiety of this gentleman's relations. We made inquiries directly we heard of the case, and if we do not hear anything soon I am ready to ask our High Commissioner to speed up the inquiries he is making.

Mr. Hardy

Will my hon. Friend ask for the information by cable?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

That has already been done.