§ 43. Mr. TOOLEasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that Stanley Crutchley, aged 14, of 20, Ezard Street, Higher Openshaw, Manchester, was, on the 3rd February, 1920, sentenced by the Manchester magistrates to three years' detention in an industrial school for his first crime of stealing a £5 note; that later he escaped from the home and upon re-arrest was sentenced to a, further term of two years' detention; that his father, who is a, workman with four people dependent on his earnings, was also ordered to contribute the sum of 5s. per week for five years out of his weekly income of £2 8s.; and whether, in view of the fact that this was the boy s first offence, and of the great hardship imposed upon the parents, he will consider the advisability of securing some remission of the sentence?
Mr. DAVIESThis case was carefully considered last August, and it was decided to review the circumstances after the boy had received a few months' further training. I am in communication with the managers of the school, as well as with my hon. Friend, in regard to the case.
§ Mr. SEXTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that men on the unemployment dole are going to gaol periodically for arrears, and cannot he modify the Regulations and so prevent the creation of gaolbirds?
§ Mr. TOOLEWill the hon. Gentleman advise the magistrates in the Manchester district as to the necessity of using the probationary system for first offenders of this description?
Mr. DAVIESI am in entire sympathy with the views of the two hon. Gentlemen, but, with regard to this particular case, if my hon. Friend will assure me that there is employment for this boy, I will give favourable consideration to the question of his release.