§ Mr. Geoffrey Dickens (Littleborough and Saddleworth)I am sorry that I have had to rise for the third time and that you are seeking to hurry me, Mr. Speaker. I have been patient—other hon. Members have not.
Recently I left the Table Office after endeavouring to table a straightforward question on a matter of public importance. A man was convicted and sentenced to six months' imprisonment for assaulting two people. He was a child murderer, and had been released from Park Lane mental institution. I wanted an inquiry into the release of that man, who had struck again. I wanted the Minister to consider holding an inquiry into the criteria that we lay down in considering cases in which murderers are released into an unsuspecting society.
You have been praised by the House, Mr. Speaker, and you richly deserve it. I therefore feel that you will deal justly with me. The Table Office informed me that my questions had to be referred to the senior Clerks—the Establishment.
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. Any matters concerning referral should come to me—privately, if necessary.