Samantha Stobbart

Lord Elystan-Morgan Excerpts

Wednesday 7th July 2010 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Neville-Jones]

I am sure the whole House, including me, share the sentiments that have just been expressed.

[Lord Elystan-Morgan]

Was the threat that was made of such a nature that it could have been interpreted as a threat to kill? Does the noble Baroness appreciate that, under the Criminal Law Act 1977, the threat to kill is a very serious offence that is punishable by 10 years’ imprisonment? Was any thought given to arresting this man before he left prison and with a view to prosecution, thus avoiding the possibility of further offences?

[Baroness Neville-Jones]

My Lords, it is absolutely right to say that such a threat would be very serious. My understanding is that the police force was not informed that there was such a threat to life.