Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of Stae for the Home Department what representations he has had regarding the exercise of the Royal Prerogative of mercy in capital cases; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. H. MorrisonI have had no recent representations on this subject. If my hon. Friend has in mind statements which have appeared in the Press suggesting that the exercise of the Royal Prerogative in capital cases should be entrusted to a tribunal composed of High Court Judges and others, my view is that the responsibility for advising His Majesty in this grave matter ought to remain with a Minister of the Crown, and the Home Secretary is the most appropriate Minister for the purpose. It is, of course, open to him to consult the trial Judge, and it is the usual practice to do so in any case of difficulty.