§ Mr. FORDasked the Secretary for Scotland whether, in the case of persons kept in custody on suspicion of being connected with a crime, any reparation is made to them when proved to be innocent; if so, what reparation is being offered to the two men, Duncan Carmichael and David Drummond, detained in prison for three months in connection with the Tranent murder on 11th April, and who were released, after withdrawal of the charge, as not guilty, on 20th July; and, if no reparation is due, will he introduce legislation to remedy this hardship?
§ Mr. MUNROAccording to the general practice in such cases, no compensation is awarded. I see no sufficient reason to make an exception in the case mentioned by my hon. and learned Friend, nor do I think that legislation is required.