HC Deb 07 August 1916 vol 85 cc663-4
59. Mr. E. HARVEY

asked the Home Secretary whether he is able to give any further information as to the work to be undertaken by those conscientious objectors to military service whose cases have been referred to the Home Office Committee appointed by him?

Mr. SAMUEL

The Committee have in hand several schemes for the employment of these men. The scheme for their employment under the Road Board is farthest advanced; and it is probable that, for some little time to come, most of the men released will be found work under the Board, who will make the necessary arrangements for housing and feeding them.

Mr. HARVEY

Have any, and, if so, how many, of these men been employed up to the present under these schemes?

Mr. SAMUEL

I do not think any rcommendations have yet been made.

87. Sir STEPHEN COLLINS

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any information can be supplied concerning P. B. Jordan, of Harrow, a member of the International Bible Students' Association and a conscientious objector, who was sent from Seaford on 30th May to Henriville Camp, Boulogne, and was court-martialled some time afterwards; what was his sentence; and will he say from what effects of his treatment this man is suffering?

Mr. FORSTER

I understand that this man is undergoing a sentence of ten years' penal servitude, but the War Office does not possess any other information with regard to him and is unaware that he is suffering any physical effects from this sentence.

Mr. KING

Is it intended that this man shall finish his sentence of penal servitude before being sent to the Central Tribunal?

Mr. FORSTER

No, Sir, I think not.

Mr. KING

Then why cannot he be treated in the same way as others who are let off on furlough until their cases can be tried?

Mr. FORSTER

I think they are treated in the same way.

Mr. KING

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that a number of these conscientious objectors are now off on furlough until their cases can be decided by the Central Tribunal, and why should there be this discrimination in one case, which is treated with so much greater severity than others?

Mr. FORSTER

I cannot help thinking that my hon. Friend has been misinformed.