§ 40. Mr. Spriggsasked the Secretary of State for War what action he intends to take to clear the name of Fusilier Marsh, who was wrongfully arrested by civilian police at the request of his Department, and on his behalf, at his home in St. Helens, Lancashire; and whether he will consider making suitable arrangements to compensate Fusilier Marsh for the distress caused to him and his wife.
§ Mr. ProfumoMy hon. Friend has already written to the hon. Member, giving him a full account of the circumstances, but I am glad to take this opportunity of stating that no blame whatever attaches to Fusilier Marsh, and to express my own regret at this unhappy error. I must, however, make it quite clear that Fusilier Marsh was not arrested, and I do not consider that there are grounds in this case for financial compensation.
§ Mr. SpriggsIs the Minister aware that apologies are not enough in a case like this? Is he aware that this young man was wrongfully detained? Is it his impression that it is a good advertisement to encourage young men to join Her Majesty's Forces when men like this young fellow are treated in such a bad way? Will the right hon. Gentleman consider compensating this young man for the damage for which his Department was responsible by this wrongful arrest?
§ Mr. ProfumoThe hon. Member has had a full letter from my hon. Friend on this matter. I feel that to make an apology was the right action to take in this case. This was a complete mistake by a member of the clerical staff. When the fusilier was thought to be a deserter, the clerk informed the police. The police did not arrest Fusilier Marsh or detain him but they asked him to go to the police station to establish the facts. I very much regret this error. It was a simple human error for which I felt I should apologise, and I have done so.
§ Mr. BurdenWhat action has been taken about the clerk who was responsible for this, and what action has been taken to ensure that in future before an allegation of this sort is made it is checked to establish its accuracy?
§ Mr. ProfumoI understand my hon. Friends interest in this matter. If he would like to consult me I will go into all the facts with him without detaining the House. It was an error which I do not believe will happen again. The civilian clerk concerned has left the Service.
§ Mr. SpriggsOn a point of order. I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.