§ 3.20 p.m.
§ Lord Monkswell asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ Whether they will refer to the Crown Prosecution Service the assertion by Sir Kenneth Dover that he was responsible for the death of Mr. Trevor Aston.
§ Baroness BlatchMy Lords, the investigation of possible criminal offences is a matter for the police. It is for them to refer a case to the Crown Prosecution Service if and when they consider that there is sufficient evidence to justify criminal proceedings. I can tell your Lordships, however, that the police are looking into the details of the case.
§ Lord MonkswellMy Lords, I thank the Minister for her full Answer.
§ Lord GeddesMy Lords, does my noble friend consider that a Question on a specific judicial matter is appropriate for Question Time in your Lordships' House?
§ Baroness BlatchMy Lords, I am not sure that it is appropriate. However, we have a proud tradition in this House of any Member being allowed to put any Question. It is a matter for the usual channels to determine whether a Question is appropriate in the proper sense of the word.
Perhaps I may say this to my noble friend. It is important. We should display in this House sufficient confidence in the criminal justice system dealing with such cases. The issue is not a matter for this House. It is a matter for the police and prosecution service.