HC Deb 29 January 1959 vol 598 cc146-7W
106. Mr. Younger

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he is taking on the proposals made for the adoption in England and Wales of existing Scottish practice in the investigation and prosecution of homosexual offences.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I am not sure what proposals the right hon. Member has in mind. The Scottish system of prosecution is quite different from the English, and it would no: seem appropriate to introduce it in relation to a particular type of offence.

107. Mr. Younger

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps he is taking to give effect to the recommendation of the Committee on Homosexual Offences and Prostitution that, except for indecent assaults, the prosecution of any homosexual offence more than 12 months old be barred by statute.

Mr. R. A. Butler

While I do not propose at present to introduce legislation to implement this recommendation, I have no doubt that chief constables have taken note of it.

108. Mr. Younger

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to ensure that persons complaining to the police about alleged blackmail in respect of homosexual practices receive adequate protection against prosecution in respect of these practices.

Mr. R. A. Butler

It is a matter for the discretion of chief officers of police, who will have taken note of the Committee's views, whether proceedings should he taken in such cases. I have no reason to think that such proceedings are other than rare.