HC Deb 29 June 1939 vol 349 c652W
Squadron-Leader Hulbert

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to recent cases where magistrates have refused to allow female witnesses to give evidence on the ground that they were not wearing hats; and, in view of the fact that this restriction is not applied in all courts, will he give instructions in order that uniformity may be achieved?

Mr. Peake

My right hon. Friend has no power to give any instructions in this matter, and as I explained in reply to a question by the hon. Member for Lich-field (Mr. Poole) on the 25th May, my right hon. Friend does not think it necessary or desirable to issue to courts any advice on the subject.