§ 35. Mr. Malcolm MacPhersonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland, in view of disclosures in the recent trial of Duncan Watt and others, what guidance he has given to police authorities as to methods of obtaining evidence.
§ Mr. J. StuartNone, Sir.
§ Mr. MacPhersonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very considerable public concern in Scotland as a result of this trial, and does he realise that what he is telling the House and the people of Scotland amounts to this, that the police will be free to use similar methods in the future as they used in connection with this case?
§ Mr. StuartI am quite satisfied that the police did not use any improper methods. Of course, I have read articles in the Press which give a very inaccurate description of what took place.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesDid the Minister say that he approved of these agents provocateurs being used in conspiracy trials? Are the police to understand that they are to be free to use these despicable methods in any similar trial that comes along?
§ Mr. StuartI have already answered similar Questions on 8th and 15th December. There is no case for saying that agents provocateurs were used. [Hon. Members: "Yes."] On the contrary, I have been into the matter and I have satisfied myself that the action of the police was perfectly proper.