HC Deb 03 May 1977 vol 931 cc115-6W
Mr. Radice

asked the Attorney-General what was the outcome of the police investigation into the death of Mr. Liddle Towers.

The Attorney-General

This case has been the subject of a very full investigation, which included a thorough examination of the vital medical evidence by no less than three consultants, including Professor Donald Teare of the Department of Forensic Medicine at St. George's Hospital Medical School. All are agreed that there is no medical evidence to support a contention that Mr. Liddle Towers's death was in any way attributable to wilful violence or rough handling by the police. I have delayed my final decision in it so as to afford, through my hon. Friend for whose assistance I am most grateful, those associated with Liddle Towers's family an opportunity of producing any further medical evidence. No further contradictory medical evidence has been received and I have, therefore, concluded that I can make my decision.

Having considered the papers in this case, including the views of the Director of Public Prosecutions and leading counsel, I have come to the same conclusion as they have, namely, that in the light of the evidence, and particularly the unanimous evidence of the medical experts, this is not a case in which proceedings should be instituted.

I have also considered whether this is an appropriate case for the exercise of my power to apply to the High Court under Section 6 of the Coroners Act 1887 for an order quashing the inquest on Liddle Towers. Having studied the papers relating to the inquest and having borne in mind the fact that there has so far been no application for my consent to such an application, I have come to the conclusion that the circumstances do not call for my intervention.

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