HC Deb 03 December 1959 vol 614 c1397
Mr. Gordon Walker

I ask leave, Mr. Speaker, to move the Adjournment of tin House, under Standing Order No. 9, to call attention to a definite matter of urgent public importance, namely, The interception by the police, and at their instigation, of a telephone conversation without the express warrant of the Secretary of State, the disclosure to a domestic tribunal of material obtained by interception, the consent given by the Home Secretary to this disclosure, and his failure to take steps to prevent a recurrence of this type of interception and disclosure in future.

Mr. Speaker

The right hon. Gentleman the Member for Smethwick (Mr. Gordon Walker) desires to move the Adjournment of the House on a definite matter of urgent public importance, namely, The interception by the police, and at their instigation, of a telephone conversation without the express warrant of the Secretary of State, the disclosure to a domestic tribunal of material obtained by interception, the consent given by the Home Secretary to this disclosure, and his failure to take steps to prevent a recurrence of this type of interception and disclosure in future.

Yesterday, in another context, the House was pressing upon me that I might have its leave upon occasion to take time to consider such matters. I would be grateful if I might have the indulgence of the House in this matter. I do not find it to be one that is altogether easy. That would mean that I would protect the right hon. Gentleman's priority. I regret that it means, of course, in these circumstances, deferring the matter, I think until Monday, but I would be grateful if the House would allow me to rule upon it then.

Mr. Gordon Walker

We are very willing to accept your decision, Mr. Speaker. Thank you very much.