§ 30. Mr. Clinton Davisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of grave public disquiet concerning the photographing of certain persons by the police immediately outside or within the precincts of the Durham Magistrates' Court on 21st October, 1970, he will establish a public inquiry in addition to the investigation instituted by the Chief Constable of Durham.
§ Mr. SharplesAn investigation has been carried out under Section 49 of the Police Act, 1964, and the Chief Constable of Durham has referred the investigating officer's report to the Director of Public Prosecutions. My right hon. Friend does not consider that any further inquiry is called for.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisWill the hon. Gentleman agree to the publication of this report and, if not, why not?
§ Mr. SharplesNo, Sir. It is not normal for a report of an investigation of this kind to be published. It is for the Director of Public Prosecutions to decide whether action should be taken.
Mr. Mark HughesDoes the Minister recollect that I raised this matter with his Department a few days after the event and would he not agree that, in view of the delicate nature of this matter for all who have detailed knowledge of the situation, we must be extremely careful in how we handle the matter?
§ Mr. SharplesYes, Sir. This is a matter which affects the hon. Member's constituency which he raised with me directly. I know that he realises the implications involved.