§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received concerning the case of chief inspector Brian Woollard; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggChief Inspector Woollard has recently reiterated his request for an independent inquiry into the influences of freemasonry in the Metropolitan police. Several hon. Members have written in support of 759W this request, or enclosing letters from constituents expressing concern about Mr. Woollard's treatment. No representations have been received directly from members of the public.
The Secretary of State has carefully considered Mr. Woollard's request but remains of the opinion that it would be inappropriate to exercise his power under section 32 of the Police Act 1964 to appoint a local inquiry into Mr. Woollard's allegations.
Mr. Woollard appeared before a disciplinary board on 25 May charged with being absent from duty. He was dismissed from the force. He has appealed against this decision to the Commissioner.