§ 36. Dr. D. Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department for what length of time Mrs. Janet Armstrong was a prisoner on remand at Holloway Gaol awaiting trial subsequent to her committal by the magistrates; what opportunities she had of communicating with other prisoners during that time; and whether, in view of the information supplied to him by the hon. Member for Carlisle, he will hold an inquiry into the circumstances of her stay at Holloway.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerMrs. Janet Armstong was received into Holloway prison on 1st September, 1956, and discharged from court on 13th December, 1956. She had the opportunity to speak to other untried prisoners, particularly, though not exclusively, during exercise. I do not think that an inquiry into the circumstances of her stay in Holloway could throw any further light on her husband's case.
§ Dr. JohnsonIs my right hon. Friend aware, however, that this Question arises from two facts? First, at the trial at which her husband was convicted for murder this young woman had changed her evidence from that which she gave to the police prior to being placed on remand; and secondly, that one of her fellow-prisoners at the time has publicly admitted in a popular newspaper that she has discussed the case with her? Will not the Home Secretary reconsider his decision in the light of these two facts?
§ Mr. ButlerInformation has been given to me by my hon. Friend, and I have also read the statements in the newspapers concerned. As I have the case under close consideration at the present time, perhaps my hon. Friend and the House will allow me to consider it further.