asked the Attorney-General whether he has completed his investigation into the documents referred to him by the learned judge at Southend County Court on 23rd July 1976 suggesting that an hon. Member had interfered in a matter pending before the court by approaching the employers of a probation officer with a view to controlling her evidence or attitude.

Yes. The learned judge invited me to consider proceedings for contempt of court. I have fully investigated this matter, and in consequence have informed the learned judge that the facts, in my opinion, do not support the suggestion made, and that there is no evidence suggesting impropriety by the hon. Member.