HC Deb 11 February 1932 vol 261 cc1010-1
34. Captain HAROLD BALFOUR

asked the Home Secretary if he is prepared to consider the granting of further privileges, including the use of tobacco to accused persons held in prison on remand and awaiting trial?

Sir H. SAMUEL

Arrangements have been made at Brixton Prison, and will eome into force this week, to allow prisoners who are on remand or awaiting trial to smoke at certain times of the day. The question of extending the arrangements to such prisoners at other prisons will be considered later in the light of the experience gained at Brixton.

Captain BALFOUR

If I put down a question in a month's time will the right hon. Gentleman be able to give me some further information?

Sir H. SAMUEL

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will communicate with me as to the date when a question should be put down.

Vice-Admiral TAYLOR

Does the right hon. Gentleman say that the charge against these persons who have these luxuries allowed them is immaterial?

Sir H. SAMUEL

Yes, Sir, until they have been subjected to trial and found guilty.

Vice-Admiral TAYLOR

Does not the mere fact that they have been kept in custody rather point to the necessity—

HON. MEMBERS

Oh!