§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why he will not introduce legislation making it illegal for the police and court officials to receive fees and payments from the Press for supplying information which may lead to Press stories.
§ Mr. SharplesBecause my right hon. Friend has no grounds for thinking that legislation is necessary.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why he will not ensure that in future no comment is made to persons, other than on the written request of the person breathalysed, his legal representatives, or others properly connected with the due processes of the law, when a possible charge for driving under the influence of alcohol is pending.
§ Mr. SharplesThe practice of the Metropolitan Police is not to comment beyond confirming facts already known to the inquirer. Where confirmation could not result in prejudice nothing would be gained by denying what was already known.