HC Deb 17 November 1949 vol 469 c2166
4. Mr. Thurtle

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the Metropolitan Police now know the identity of the pseudo John Hadlow who wrote a letter to the "New Statesman" making serious charges against the police; and what action he proposes to take to have the charges investigated.

Mr. Ede

Early next week I hope, with Mr. Speaker's permission, to make a full statement for which I would ask my hon. Friend to wait.

Mr. Platts-Mills

Would the right hon. Gentleman, before that statement is made, confirm that this young man, having been dismissed—indeed I informed the House last week that he was—made up his mind not to come forward only on the basis of this very damaging experience and with the greatest reluctance?

Mr. Ede

I would have preferred to leave all the questions until next week, but as the hon. Gentleman has raised this matter, I think I ought to state that what John Hadlow said to the Editor of the "New Statesman" does not bear out the allegation that he was dismissed.

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