HL Deb 09 December 1959 vol 220 cc171-2

2.40 p.m.

LORD MORRISON OF LAMBETH

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether a statement will be made with regard to the action of the police in listening in to a telephone conversation which was used in evidence in the proceedings before the Disciplinary Committee of the General Medical Council in the case of Dr. Fox.]

THE LORD CHANCELLOR (VISCOUNT KILMUIR)

My Lords, I understand that my right honourable friend the Home Secretary would hope to make a statement in the course of a debate which may take place next week in another place in regard to certain important questions of principle which arise in this case. In these circumstances I should prefer not to elaborate further on this matter to-day but I shall be very ready subsequently to make a statement in your Lordships' House.

LORD MORRISON OF LAMBETH

My Lords, I am obliged to the noble and learned Viscount the Lord Chancellor, and I understand his motives in this matter, having myself had to arrange these things in earlier days. In the circumstances, I think it is reasonable that we should hold over this Question. The House will appreciate that we may wish to put the Question again at a more appropriate time, and that we may want to discuss it in its wider aspects.