HC Deb 08 December 1955 vol 547 cc541-2
21. Mr. V. Yates

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, in view of the fact that a representative of Her Majesty's Government is not required to be present at the execution of persons condemned to death, whether he will undertake to be present at all future executions.

Major Lloyd-George

No, Sir.

Mr. Yates

Does not the Home Secretary consider that as certain persons are required to be present, namely, a minister of religion and a doctor, the Home Secretary—who has the responsibility of writing across the papers, "The law must take its course"—is under a moral obligation to be present in such cases to see that the law is carried out in the name of this House?

Major Lloyd-George

I have nothing to add to my Answer.

Forward to