§ 13. Mr. Leslie Huckfieldasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what reconsideration he has given to the circulars from his Department advising chief constables to make reports to professional bodies on their members; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CarlisleA review of the arrangements is in progress. My right hon. Friend will make a statement when it is complete.
§ Mr. Leslie HuckfieldDoes the hon. and learned Gentleman not recall the case reported in the Sunday Times earlier this year of a chief constable who reported a midwife to her professional body because it was thought that she had an 1176 inferiority complex? Does he not recall the rather strong pledge given by a predecessor of his right hon. Friend, and will he now undertake to make a statement on this matter to the House as soon as possible?
§ Mr. CarlisleI recollect the pledge made by my right hon. Friend. That is why a review of the arrangement is taking place. I should point out to the hon. Gentleman, first, that no representations have ever been received by the Home Office from those in whose case a report has been made, and, secondly, that the basic purpose of these reports is the protection of the public.