HC Deb 15 July 1915 vol 73 c990
56. Sir H. CRAIK

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the case in which a clerk in the War Office, named Octave William Trend, was convicted at Bow Street with having received bribes in connected with the grant of commissions, and was sentenced to four months' imprisonment in the second division; and whether he will take steps with the view of effectually stopping in his Department a crime so dangerous to the public interest?

Mr. TENNANT

As soon as this matter came to notice, some time before the prosecution at Bow Street, steps were taken to prevent the recurrence of the irregularities referred to.

Sir H. CRAIK

Might I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether it would not be possible to have such cases as this dealt with under the Defence of the Realm Act, where drastic and adequate punishment could be administered?

Mr. TENNANT

lam not aware that the ordinary law is inadequately provided with penalties.

Sir H. CRAIK

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that this was sufficient punishment for a crime so heinous?