A G
399
THE GOVERNOR'S MINUTE TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
via S for. I
Appendix 45
1.
2.
The amended memorandum is much more satisfactory.
I agree that the police report is not suitable for publication in full; indeed its publication would only rearouse interest in the alleged deficiencies in the police enquiry.
3.
outcome of
I also agree that it would be preferable to deal with the the police enquiry at the same time as the A G, after considering the Coroner's depositions, announces
that he does not propose to order the inquest to be reopened. I also agree that we owe it to the police that the A G should restate the overwhelming weight of evidence indicating suicide.
4.
It is the latter which explains the alleged deficiencies in the police investigations at the scene of the death. With such conclusive evidence that murder was impossible, it is understandable that the police did not eg fingerprint the cartridges or the windows or the suicide note. It is a matter of professional opinion whether such investigations should always be undertaken no matter how strong the evidence may be against foul play. The A G might consider taking this line in responding to any questions about deficiencies in procedure thrown up in the course of the inquest.
5.
by a
I agree that the best way of wrapping all this up would be statement by the A G at a press conference, with opportunities for questions, and that he should undertake this personally after his
return.
6.
While it would be natural for him to announce at the press conference the reference of the law on homosexuality to the Law Commission, he should at the same time mention other issues that he proposes to review. At the moment there is a misunderstanding in some quarters that the Commission has been set up to deal with the law on homosexuality which is highly misleading.
22 April 1980