§ Mr. WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that certain benches of magistrates arrange that one of their number shall be present at the birching of any youthful offender whom they may sentence, and whether he can do anything to extend the practice?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Churchill)This seems to me a matter which must be left to the discretion of the magistrates themselves, but I think it is desirable that persons concerned with the administration of justice should carefully acquaint themselves with the nature and character of any punishments which they may be authorised to order.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODWould it not be possible to circularise benches of magistrates with the reply, and the further suggestion that one of their number should be present?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI think the question and the answer will have a certain effect, but I do not feel able at this moment to adopt the suggestion.
§ Mr. BYLESCould not the right hon. Gentleman put an end altogether to this barbarous method of punishing children?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI do not think I should be able to give my hon. Friend an answer which would be satisfactory to him.