§ 8. Mr. Clinton Davisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement concerning the case of Mr. Errol Folkes, who was kept in custody from 9th September, 1971, to 7th March, 1972, and subsequently acquitted on a charge of entering a flat as a trespasser with intent to steal, which case was ordered to be reported to his Department by Lord Dunboyne, the trial judge.
§ Mr. CarlisleDespite the several safeguards available, Mr. Folkes was regretably detailed in custody although the court had granted bail subject to a satisfactory surety being found and such a surety was available. My noble Friend the Lord Chancellor and I share the concern that has been expressed about this case and we are reviewing the relevant procedures.
§ Mr. DavisWhilst I thank the hon. and learned Gentleman for that reply. 1644 and the customary courtesy and interest he displayed in this case in writing to me at such length about it, may I have an assurance from him that the general inquiries into the case, quite apart from those relating to the administrative difficulties which have arisen, will continue so that this man, who has suffered such appalling injustice, may look to the future with some confidence?
§ Mr. CarlisleAs I have said, we will review all the relevant procedures. I realise that things went wrong in the case to which the hon. Gentleman refers, and we will consider it in the inquiry.