21. Mr. MONTAGUE BARLOWasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has now been able to consider further the case of W. B. Jackson, late cook on the steamer "Ethiope," who on the 12th day of May last was sentenced by the Supreme Court of Jurisdiction of Southern Nigeria to four years' penal servitude for manslaughter of a Kroo boy; and whether, seeing that Jackson has always borne an exemplary character, he can see his way to review the sentence with a view to a remission of some portion of it?
§ 31. Mr. BARNESasked whether he will have inquiries made into the case of W. B. Jackson, who on 12th May last was sentenced by the Supreme Court of Jurisdiction of Southern Nigeria to four years' penal servitude for the manslaughter of a Kroo boy on board the steampship "Ethiope," while lying at Lagos; whether he is aware that the act was unpremeditated, committed under provocation, and largely attributable to trying climatic conditions; and whether, seeing that Jackson has always borne an exemplary character, he will review the case with a view to the remission of some portion of the sentence, which is now being worked out in Maidstone Gaol?
Mr. HARCOURTI have received a report on the case referred to. The question of a possible remission of a part of the sentence is under consideration by the Governor.
Mr. BARLOWCan the right hon. Gentleman give us any indication as to when he is likely to be in a position to inform the House as to his decision?
Mr. HARCOURTAs soon as a decision has been arrived at I will communicate it to the House or give the hon. Member an opportunity of asking about it.
§ Mr. BARNESMay I ask if the right hon. Gentleman has seen a testimonial given to this man by his late captain?