HC Deb 17 July 1979 vol 970 c429W
Mr. Beaumont-Dark

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has ascertained the views of the Association of Chief Constables as to the deterrent effect of the death penalty; and what views they expressed.

Mr. Major

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has held consultations with the Association of Chief Constables to determine their views upon the restoration of capital punishment; and whether he will issue a statement.

Mr. Whitelaw

I have taken no steps to ascertain formally the views on this subject of the Association of Chief Police Officers: but I understand that chief officers of police hold differing views on the question of the re-introduction of capital punishment.

Mr. Beaumont-Dark

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he has ascertained the views of prison governors as to the deterrent effect of the death penalty; and what views they expressed.

Mr. Whitelaw

No.