HC Deb 03 November 1986 vol 103 cc678-9
49. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Attorney-General what representations he has received about the conclusions of the fourth report from the Defence Committee on "Westland plc: the Government's Decision-making," in so far as they relate to his responsibilities.

The Attorney-General (Sir Michael Havers)

I have received three letters from hon. Members in which they asked questions as to the role I played in the inquiry into the disclosure of the Solicitor-General's letter.

Mr. Dalyell

Is it, or is it not, true, as reported by Mr. John Lewis in the Sunday Telegraph on 27 July, that the Attorney-General did any such thing as threaten Sir Robert Armstrong that he would bring in either the Director of Public Prosecutions or the police if there was not an agreement from the Cabinet to have an inquiry into the circumstances in which the Solicitor-General's letter was leaked?

The Attorney-General

I have nothing to add to what has already been said in answer to questions and in statements.

Mr. Winnick

Is it not amazing that the Attorney-General has to threaten the Cabinet Secretary that the police will be called in to No. 10 unless an inquiry is held into public matters? Does the Attorney-General realise that the very fact that he refuses directly to answer the question asked by my hon. Friend the Member for Linlithgow (Mr. Dalyell), which I am putting to him again, must confirm that the newspaper reports are accurate?

The Attorney-General

My answer in no way confirms the report.

Mr. Nicholas Brown

I cannot help but say that I am not sure that the Attorney-General is being as candid with the House as he might be. Am I right in assuming that the reason why no civil servant is to be prosecuted for leaking the Solicitor-General's letter is that the Attorney-General believes that ultimate blame lies elsewhere? Is he aware that his failure to prosecute civil servants effectively pins the blame on the only possible remaining culprit—the Prime Minister?

The Attorney-General

If I may say so, that is the non sequitor of the day. The only civil servant whom I was concerned with was the information officer. For the reasons that I have explained to the House, it is quite clear that no jury would ever convict her.

Mr. Dalyell

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the Attorney-General's reply, I give notice that I intend to raise the matter on the Adjournment.