22 and 23. Mr. E. HARVEYasked whether (1) in the form of field punishment known as crucifixion the fixing of the limbs is sometimes so tight as to allow of no mobility at all; whether any instructions have been issued to safeguard against this occurring; and (2) whether all soldiers sentenced to the form of field punishment known as crucifixion are examined by a medical officer before undergoing punishment?
§ 29. Mr. OUTHWAITEasked whether, under the French Military Code, soldiers can be subjected to any punishment of the nature of field punishment No. 1, commonly known as "crucifixion"?
§ Mr. TENNANTI am not aware whether, under the French Military Code, there is any punishment similar to the nature of field punishment No. 1. The expression "crucifixion" is one not known to military law, and is one which I have not heard except in questions put by, and speeches made by, hon. Members. The instructions for field punishment have been laid before Parliament, and I am not aware that, prisoners have been subjected to any greater restraint than is allowed by these instructions. Soldiers are not examined before undergoing punishment, but a medical officer is available should his services be required.
Mr. HARVEYHas the right hon. Gentleman taken medical evidence as to the very serious effects that may sometimes be produced by this punishment on men who have not a strong physique?
§ Mr. TENNANTI will read that part of the Army Rules relating to field punishment which bears on the point:
Every portion of field punishment shall be inflicted in such a manner as is calculated not to cause injury or to leave any permanent mark on the offender; and a portion of the field punishment must, be discontinued upon a report by a responsible medical officer that the continuance of that portion would be prejudicial to the offender's health.
§ Mr. MORRELLIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is perfectly well known that this punishment is known as crucifixion in the ranks of the Army?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe right hon. Gentleman has just now contradicted that statement.
§ Mr. OUTHWAITEThe officers call it that.