§ 33. Mr. KINGasked the Home Secretary whether on or about 6th February there was a strike of the conscientious objectors at Dartmoor; if so, what was the ground of grievance alleged; and what action has been taken to remove the causes of discontent?
§ Sir G. CAVEAbout half the conscientious objectors in the Dartmoor Work Centre refused to work on Friday last. They alleged as their grievance that one of their number, Harry Firth, who had recently died, had not been properly treated by the medical officer, and they also said that they desired to protest against the treatment of conscientious objectors generally. The Committee are inquiring into the matter.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSWill disciplinary measures be taken against the strikers?
§ Sir G. CAVEThat, of course, depends on the result of the inquiry. We inquire first and take measures afterwards.
§ 36. Mr. CROOKSasked the Home Secretary whether he will issue instructions to the Governor of Winchester Prison that the concessions to conscientious objectors who have served upwards of twelve months' imprisonment, whereby they are permitted to interview their friends in a private room, be acted upon?
§ Sir G. CAVEThe Instructions by which the concessions were authorised do not provide that visits shall be in a private room, but Governors have authority, in their discretion, to allow the use of a private room if there is available accommodation. At Winchester Prison there is no such room available at present, but the 260 matter is being inquired into to see whether any alternative arrangement can be made.
§ 44. Mr. THOMAS RICHARDSONasked whether conscientious objectors are employed in the lime quarries at Grim, Harpur Hill, Dove Holes, and South, at Buxton; if so, whether this work is war work; and whether the men are being employed as substitutes for the regular men combed out?
§ Sir G. CAVEConscientious objectors are employed at the quarries mentioned, but in the arrangement made for their employment it was specially stipulated that they should only be employed on production of lime for agriculture and other non-war purposes. They are not being employed as substitutes for individuals who have been withdrawn for military service, though, of course, employment in every industry is affected by the number of men who are now serving in the Army and Navy.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether any of these men were invited to a dance at Princetown given by the conscientious objectors?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member must give notice of that question.