§ Mr. Hollisasked the Attorney-General whether he is aware that arrangements are frequently made whereby newspapers finance the defence of persons charged with criminal offences in return for certain undertakings by them; and whether he will institute an inquiry to consider the desirability of legislation to prevent probable abuses arising therefrom.
§ The Attorney-GeneralI understand that such arrangements are made but I have no detailed information as to the nature of the undertakings referred to. With regard to the second part of the Question, I am aware of the concern felt on this subject in all parts of the House, but I cannot at present add anything to the answer I gave this afternoon to the hon. Member for South Ayrshire (Mr. Emrys Hughes).