HC Deb 23 February 1956 vol 549 c564
26. Mr. Orbach

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department on what date Inspector C. R. Jacobs of the Metropolitan Police entered the service; how many commendations he had received during the period of his service with the police; what was the date of his posting to the West End Central Police Station; and what were the reasons for his dismissal from the Metropolitan Police.

Major Lloyd-George

Mr. Jacobs joined the Metropolitan Police on 5th January, 1931, and received 22 commendations during his service. He was posted to "C" Division on 4th January, 1954. He was dismissed from the force having been found guilty of three offences against the code of discipline.

Mr. Orbach

Will the Home Secretary agree that the disciplinary court which heard these charges did not have Inspector Jacobs before it? If those charges were so grave, why were they not made before a court so that he might be tried on the charges of which he was accused? Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not agree that there was indecent haste on the part of the Commissioner in calling a Press conference to defame this man before he had an opportunity of entering an appeal?

Major Lloyd-George

As this may be a subject of appeal to me as Secretary of State, I think I had better not add anything at the moment to what I have said.

Mr. Shepherd

Would my right hon. and gallant Friend say whether the offences alleged against this officer were put before the Director of Public Prosecutions?

Major Lloyd-George

The matter is subject to an appeal now.