§ 2. Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has now decided on the terms of his reply to the deputation of hon. Members who waited on him in regard to reviewing the prison sentences imposed on four Scottish youths at Edinburgh last October.
§ 11. Mr. G. M. Thomsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received regarding a reduction of the sentences passed in the conspiracy trial at Edinburgh at the end of last year; and what answer he has made.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. James Stuart)In addition to the representations from hon. Members, to which the hon. Member for Tradeston (Mr. Rankin) refers, I have received about 120 letters, mainly from private individuals. I will communicate with the hon. Members concerned and reply to the other representations at an early date.
§ Mr. RankinWhile appreciating the difficulties of pursuing this matter in the House of Commons because the Royal Prerogative is involved, may I ask the Secretary of State, even at this late date, that he will take a very kindly view of this business, so that we may hope for the release of these youths before the expiration of their sentences?
§ Mr. StuartI am grateful to the hon. Member for the way in which he has couched his question. I do assure him that I have given a great deal of thought to the matter and have taken all factors into account. I have given an undertaking that I will communicate with him and others at a very early date. That I will do.