Ratio Decidendi
A citizen has no legal obligation to answer police questions or to assist the police with their enquiries. While it may be a moral or social duty, refusal to answer questions does not amount to wilful obstruction of a constable.
Hechos
Rice was seen acting suspiciously. A police officer asked him questions, which he refused to answer. He was charged with wilfully obstructing a constable in the execution of his duty.
Resumen de la sentencia
The Divisional Court held that there is no legal duty to answer police questions. Refusal to cooperate, without more, does not amount to obstruction. The conviction was quashed.
Citas clave
"Though every citizen has a moral duty to assist the police, there is no legal duty to that effect."
— Lord Parker CJ
Tratamiento posterior
Applied
Routinely cited on the right to silence and police powers.