HC Deb 09 February 1961 vol 634 cc81-2W
79. Dr. D. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that Mr. J. A. Sinclair, of 1, Finn Avenue, Carlisle, who while recently serving eight years' preventive detention in Park-hurst Prison was, in response to repeated applications to commence a claim for damages against the authorities on account of injuries to his hand, informed that he was unable to proceed with his claim and that he should await release before commencing proceedings, has now been advised on his release that his claim is statute barred; what communication he has received from Mr. Sinclair asking him to waive his defence of the Statute of Limitations to such a claim; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. R. A. Butler:

I have received letters from Mr. Sinclair about his case. He has been informed that no admission of liability is made, but that if any proceedings are brought the statutory defence under the Law Reform (Limitation of Actions, etc.) Act, 1954, will not be relied on in respect of the time he was in prison.