§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why it took him until 21st March to reply to the communication sent to his Department on 1st February regarding men arrested with an allegation of loitering with intent made against them; what was contained in this reply which could not have been sent some weeks earlier; and whether he will take steps to expedite his replies in future.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe answers to certain general questions raised by my hon. Friend could have been given earlier, but it seemed better to defer a reply until a 271W report had been obtained from the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis on the particular case which gave rise to these questions. Our aim is to reply to all letters from hon. Members as quickly as practicable.