§ 30. Mr. COCKS (for Mr. RHYS DAVIES)asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware 1568 that a trooper named Tarplett, serving with His Majesty's Forces in Egypt, was executed by shooting in Cairo, on 25th January, 1933, for causing the death of a sergeant; that three doctors gave evidence that Tarplett was mentally abnormal; and that the trial was held in camera; and whether, in view of the fact that there is a British consular civil code in being in Cairo, he will give the reasons why this man was tried by a military court and not by civil proceedings?
Lieut.-Colonel Sir A. LAMBERT WARD (Lord of the Treasury)I have been asked to reply. I am aware of the facts of this case. The hon. Member is incorrect in suggesting that three doctors gave evidence that Tarplett was mentally abnormal, or that the trial was held in camera. As regards the last part of the question, Section 41 of the Army Act provides for the trial of such a case by court-martial, and this mode of trial was decided upon as being the one most suitable.