§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILL (Donegal, S.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the penalty of shot drill, which was abolished since April, 1899, in the Army, has been inflicted on prisoners in the military cells at Lichfield up till 17th February last; and will he state what explanations, if any, have the War Office authorities to give with reference to this circumstance, and on whom does the responsibility lie.
§ MR. BRODRICKThe officer responsible for the circumstance referred to is the officer commanding the Regimental District at Lichfield. The necessary action is being taken, and a full investigation has been called for.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this bar barous practice of shot drill was in use at this prison until 17th February last?
§ MR. BRODRICKI cannot say up to what date, but investigation is being made.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLThen I will ask the right hon. Gentleman whether—
§ * MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! The right hon. Gentleman has said he has given all the information he has.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLI will put a further Question down for tomorrow.