HC Deb 08 July 1954 vol 529 cc2313-4
3. Sir R. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is now in a position to announce the membership and terms of reference of the committee which is to inquire into the existing laws relating to homosexual offences and prostitution.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

The terms of reference of the committee are to be: To consider—

  1. (a) the law and practice relating to homosexual offences and the treatment of persons convicted of such offences by the courts; and
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  3. (b) the law and practice relating to offences against the criminal law in connection with prostitution and solicitation for immoral purposes;
and to report what changes, if any, are in their opinion desirable. I am glad to be able to inform the House that Mr. J. F. Wolfenden, C.B.E., Vice-Chancellor of Reading University, has agreed to serve as chairman. I hope shortly to be in a position to announce the names of the other members of the committee.

Sir R. Boothby

While thanking my right hon. and learned Friend far that answer, may I ask whether he will be able to announce the other names before the House rises for the Summer Recess?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I very much hope so.