HC Deb 16 February 1961 vol 634 cc1753-4
39. Mr. Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware of the increasing concern felt by the public about convictions in criminal cases, particularly murder trials, where convictions result from confessions made by the accused while in police custody, without adequate corroborative evidence of guilt; and whether he will review the existing procedure obtaining in such cases.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I am aware of the views which have been expressed on this matter. The present practice of the police in relation to the taking of statements is governed by the Judges' Rules, and I am not convinced that action on the lines suggested by the hon. Member is suitable.

Mr. Fletcher

Does not the Home Secretary recognise that, whether one believes in the retention of capital punishment or in its complete abolition, there is very considerable public disquiet about the administration of justice and, in particular, when convictions result from confessions obtained in a police station without any corroboration? While that is serious in all criminal cases, it is particularly serious in capital cases. Will he try to exercise his responsibility to ensure that the Judges' Rules are thoroughly observed?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir. It had crossed my mind that this might be a matter for the Royal Commission, but hitherto it has not interpreted its terms of reference as covering this matter. I am, however, in touch with the chairman of the Royal Commission, and if the Judges' Rules are to be looked into I must reserve the position of the Lord Chief Justice. I go so far as to say that these things indicate that I regard this as a serious and important matter.

Mr. Fletcher

In view of the public disquiet about the Riley case following the recent revelations concerning the Evans case, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that it would be wise to ask the Royal Commission to investigate this matter?

Mr. Butler

I would want to be satisfied, because the police operate on what are known as the Judges' Rules. It is, therefore, a matter on which I think I should first consult the Lord Chief Justice, but it depends on the Judges' Rules which I am sure we all wish to see properly carried out. That is why a little care and investigation is necessary.