HC Deb 03 March 1955 vol 537 cc2221-2
12. Mr. Gower

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will introduce legislation to enable juries in England and Wales to return the Scottish verdict of "Not proven" in appropriate cases.

Major Lloyd-George

No, Sir.

Mr. Gower

Will my right hon. and gallant Friend not agree that the very fact that this verdict has been available for generations to juries in Scotland indicates that it must have considerable value? In view of the fact that the responsibility which faces juries in England and Wales is an awful one when they have to say merely "Guilty" or "Not guilty" in doubtful cases, will he reconsider the matter?

Mr. G. Thomas

May I ask the Home Secretary if he will ignore the uneasy conscience of the hon. Gentleman, and bear in mind that it would be a terrible thing for anyone to walk about with a verdict of "Not proven" following him, even the hon. Member for Barry (Mr. Gower)?

Mr. Gower

Quite unworthy.