HC Deb 06 April 1978 vol 947 c622
10. Mr. George Rodgers

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he anticipates that the findings of the police inquiry into business and local government matters in Lancashire being carried out under the direction of the Chief Constable of Nottinghamshire will be available; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

I understand that the Director of Public Prosecutions has recently received the report of the investigation and is at present studying it.

Mr. Rodgers

One appreciates the necessity for thoroughness in these matters, but does my right hon. Friend not agree that the findings of this inquiry and the decision whether to reopen the Osmonde inquiry into the conduct of the Chief Constable of Lancashire should be finalised as quickly as possible? Does he agree that until these matters are resolved there will be a cloud over the administration in Lancashire and over the heads of many hundreds of innocent and decent people.

Mr. Rees

I agree with my hon. Friend. I know that he understands why I could not see him until late on in this matter; it was because I had an appellate role to play. I am sensitive to what he says and I shall certainly make a statement as soon as I can. I agree that a long period has passed, but I have to proceed in a proper manner, because there are legal aspects.

Mr. Edward Gardner

Will the Home Secretary direct his attention to the serious criticisms that have been made by the Chairman of the Lancashire Police Committee, County Councillor Frank Lofthouse, about the state of the regulations which govern the disciplinary procedure under which the Chief Constable of Lancashire, as he then was, was dismissed from his post?

Mr. Rees

I have looked at that matter, but it is of a particular nature. What my hon. Friend is concerned about is a general situation in the county of Lancashire. I think that it is right for all concerned that I make a statement on that as soon as I can.