Right of Silence

HC Deb 02 February 1989 vol 146 c385W

67. Mr. Hind

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he will make a statement on his conclusions concerning the right of silence.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

My right hon. Friend is awaiting the report of the working group which was set up last year to consider what changes in the law are necessary. We expect to receive its report around Easter.

77. Mr. Archer

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received relating to the possible abolition of the right of silence.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

My right hon. Friend has received a number of letters from right hon. and hon. Members, including one from the hon. Member for Kingston-upon-Hull, West (Mr. Randall) on behalf of the Opposition, and from members of the public. I understand that the working group on the right of silence which my right hon. Friend set up to consider this issue has received responses to its consultation document from a wide range of interested bodies.