§ 9. Mr. BRIANTasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that floggings of native soldiers in the 2nd King's African Rifles are frequent; that recently a bugler of 12 years of age was given 15 lashes; and whether he will consider the advisability of discontinuing this form of punishment, especially in times of peace?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Edward Wood)I am not aware that the flogging of native soldiers is frequent in the 2nd Battalion, King's African Rifles, and I have no information as to the incident referred to by the hon. Member, but inquiry will be made of the Governor of the Tanganyika Territory, and the whole matter will be discussed with the Inspector-General after his arrival in England from East Africa.
§ Mr. BRIANTWill the hon. Gentleman kindly supply me with a return showing the number of floggings in the last six months, and, when he has the reply to the inquiry that he has mentioned, will he kindly forward it to me?
§ Colonel ASHLEYAre we to understand that flogging is legal in this Force?
§ Mr. WOODAs I think my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, these matters are regulated by Ordinance. If he wishes to ask me exactly what the Ordinance says, I am afraid I must ask for notice of the question.