(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that at the close of the case presented by Mr. Art O'Brien before the Compensation Tribunal on Wednesday last, Lord Justice Atkin said that Mr. O'Brien had conducted his case with great courtesy and ability and must have undergone a severe strain, and that if the matter rested with the Court it would very much like him to be given a substantial meal, and that the chief warder in charge of Mr. O'Brien stated that he had been given instructions not to allow him to purchase any food; whether the Secretary of State for the Home Department is responsible for such a harsh and unreasonable order, particularly in view of the expressed wish of the learned Judge, and, if not, what action he proposes to take on the matter?

This question came into my hands less than an hour ago, and I have had no time to inquire into the case. I would, therefore, ask my hon. Friend to postpone the question until Monday, and I will endeavour then to give him a reply.

Perhaps the hon. Member will hand in the question, so that it may appear on the Paper on Monday.

May I ask the hon. Gentleman whether I did not call his attention to this matter at 3 o'clock yesterday?