HC Deb 11 March 1884 vol 285 cc1269-70
LORD HENRY LENNOX

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Whether his attention has been called to the evidence respecting the condition of the hangman whilst in Kirkdale Gaol, waiting preparatory to the execution of Michael Maclean in Kirkdale Gaol yesterday morning; and, whether he will take the necessary steps to remedy such a state of things?

SIR WILLIAM HARCOURT

I have not yet received any authentic information with reference to this matter, and it would not be right that I should make any statement on it until I have received such information. The noble Lord is probably aware that I have no authority to appoint or dismiss the executioner. That is a power which rests in the local authorities in each case.

MR. KENNY

asked whether the Home Secretary had no power to prevent a repetition of the painful scenes which had occurred?

SIR WILLIAM HARCOURT

Of course, the Home Office, if occasion arose, might ask Parliament for new powers of that kind. I am only speaking of matters as they stand at present. With regard to the scenes referred to, I cannot admit that in the past anything has arisen which would justify such an application to Parliament, because, in the absence of authentic information, I am unable to report upon the matter.