Oral Answers to Questions — Police. – in the House of Commons am ar 16 Gorffennaf 1925.
Mr Alexander Livingstone
, Ross and Cromarty
asked the Home Secretary whether he has called for and received a Report on the allegations made at the Central Criminal Court this week against the conduct of the police at Vine Street police station; and, if so, what are its contents?
Mr William Joynson-Hicks
, Twickenham
Yes, Sir. The Commissioner of Police has asked me to direct an independent inquiry into the action of the police in this case. I concur in his recommendation, and have given directions accordingly, and I am glad to say my right hon. and learned Friend the Member for Cambridge University (Mr. Rawlinson) has accepted my invitation to hold the inquiry.
Mr John Hayes
, Liverpool Edge Hill
Will the officers concerned in this matter be allowed to be represented?
Mr William Joynson-Hicks
, Twickenham
Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put that question later. I only heard of the case two or three days ago, when it was finished in the Court. I at once communicated with the Commissioner of Police. I then communicated with my right hon. Friend the Member for Cambridge University, who yesterday afternoon very kindly consented to hold an inquiry. I wish, necessarily, to see him and discuss the method in which the inquiry will be held, but I have no doubt that every arrangement will be made for every one concerned being represented.
Mr Harry Day
, Southwark Central
Will the inquiry be held in public?
Lieut-Colonel Hon. Cuthbert James
, Bromley
Will the inquiry be confined within the narrow limits of the particular case, or, will a general inquiry be made?
Mr William Joynson-Hicks
, Twickenham
I think for the moment, certainly, that it should be confined to the narrow limits of the individual case. So far, however, as I know at present there is no general charge levied against the police. Therefore, there would be nothing to inquire upon in that respect. With respect to the suggestion of holding the inquiry in public I have a view on that, but I think until I have consulted my right hon. Friend I prefer to say nothing.
Mr John Hayes
, Liverpool Edge Hill
Will the evidence be taken on oath?
Mr William Joynson-Hicks
, Twickenham
To all these questions I could have said, by way of reply, that I would make a statement later. I thought it desirable in the interest of the police and the public to make at the earliest moment the announcement that the inquiry will take place. I am sure the House will give me time to consult my right hon. Friend before saying anything further.
Mr Alexander Livingstone
, Ross and Cromarty
Surely the Minister might decide whether this should be a public or private inquiry? [HON. MEMBERS: "Order, order!"]
Ministers make up the Government and almost all are members of the House of Lords or the House of Commons. There are three main types of Minister. Departmental Ministers are in charge of Government Departments. The Government is divided into different Departments which have responsibilities for different areas. For example the Treasury is in charge of Government spending. Departmental Ministers in the Cabinet are generally called 'Secretary of State' but some have special titles such as Chancellor of the Exchequer. Ministers of State and Junior Ministers assist the ministers in charge of the department. They normally have responsibility for a particular area within the department and are sometimes given a title that reflects this - for example Minister of Transport.
