12 APRIL 1924, Page 14

A REMEDY FOR BLACKMAIL.

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]

SIR,—The remarks made by the judge in the recent blackmail case, on the apparent increase of this foulest of crimes, have attracted a good deal of attention. It is obvious that the principal weapon in the hands of the blackmailer is the terror of publicity on the part of the victim. Nothing can ever alter this condition of things as long as humanity survives. But is there not an obvious remedy ready at hand ? To introduce a Bill whereby all cases of prosecution for black- mail should be heard in camera with authority to the judge to inflict any penalty in his discretion, from flogging to penal servitude for life. The blackmailer would be check- mated on the spot.—I am, Sir, &c.,