Continuation
PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL
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4.
In my present view a referendum would certainly have a number of disadvantages perhaps not least that if it resulted in a substantial majority in favour of the retention of capital punishment it could further complicate the Secretary of State's task. Moreover I doubt whether it would defuse a potentially emotive and divisive situation: it might indeed have a contrary effect.
Yours ever Peter
GP Lloyd Acting Governor
PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL