HC Deb 25 June 1918 vol 107 cc871-2
29. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is yet in a position to give the names of the men who fought with a soldier at Princetown; is he aware that not long ago a wounded officer who went to Princetown from Plymouth on a trip was laughed at by some of these shirkers, who retired on being belaboured by the wounded man with his crutch; will he see that more discipline is observed at this centre, that men who have avoided military service under the plea of conscientious objection are not allowed to molest or mock at wounded soldiers, and that if this is done will he undertake that more disciplinary action will be taken by the authorities; and will some notice be placed in a prominent place in the work centre to this effect?

Mr. BRACE

I am not yet in a position to give the names of the conscientious objectors concerned in the incident. I understand that the officer in question is unwilling that his name should be given, and it is therefore difficut to make further inquiry. I am satisfied that discipline is well maintained at the centre, but it is, of course, impossible to ensure that everyone of the thousand conscientious objectors will behave correctly while absent from the centre during the hours when he is not at work. Any such conduct as that alleged in the question, if brought home to an individual offender, would be dealt with by return to prison or to military service, and this is perfectly well known to the men. I need hardly add that I should welcome any information from the hon. Member, or from any other person, which would enable the Committee, or their local manager, to identify any man guilty of an offence against the Committee's rules.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

In view of the complaints made by men on the spot with regard to the behaviour of these so-called conscientious objectors, will the right hon. Gentleman do as I ask him, place a notice at the centre to the effect that this sort of conduct will not be allowed?

Mr. BRACE

The conscientious objectors are well aware that they will be returned to prison or the Army if they are found Breaking the rules, and if my hon. Friend will help us to find out anyone guilty of a breach of the rules we will deal with it.

Mr. WHITEHOUSE

Has the right hon. Gentleman any confirmation of the specific allegation made in this question?

Mr. BRACE

Yes; I understand that something did take place, but we were unable to trace the parties, although we have knowledge as to the officers, who are unwilling, however, that their names should be made public.