HC Deb 12 July 1909 vol 7 cc1634-5
Mr. ASHLEY

asked the Secretary for War whether any inquiry was held into the cause of the three suicides and one attempted suicide occurring in the Royal Garrison Artillery in Malta, between 1st September, 1907, and 30th April, 1909; and, if so, what were the findings?

Mr. HALDANE

Inquests were held on two of the cases of suicide, and therefore no military inquiries were held. As regards the third case of suicide, which occurred in April last, no report has reached the War Office, but doubtless the same procedure was adopted. As regards the case of attempted suicide, the court found that the man was guilty of cutting his throat with a razor with intent to commit suicide. The prisoner pleaded ignorance of the act owing to heavy drinking.

Mr. ASHLEY

The right hon. Gentleman has not answered the latter part of my question.

Mr. HALDANE

The findings were the Civil findings at the inquest. The finding was that the man was guilty of cutting his throat with a razor with intent to commit suicide. The prisoner pleaded ignorance of the act owing to heavy drinking.