§ 25. Mr. BUCHANANasked the Home Secretary if it is intended to take any action against the various newspapers which recently published either unfounded reports of the conduct of certain prisoners in Dartmoor Prison or certain exaggerated reports; and if he intends taking any action to see that these reports do not in any way interfere with the trial of the men concerned?
§ Sir H. SAMUELI have so far seen nothing in any newspaper that is reasonably likely to prejudice the trial of any accused prisoner or that would warrant the institution of proceedings against any newspaper.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIn view of the fact that the right hon. Gentleman himself has described some of the statements regarding alleged rioting as grossly exag- 1256 gerated and wholly unfounded, are they not calculated to influence the jury in the trial of these men's cases?
§ Sir H. SAMUELNo, I do not think it will influence any sensible jury.
§ 28. Mr. KIMBALL(for Mr. LYONS) asked the Home Secretary the reason for the recent changes in the governorships of His Majesty's prisons at Cardiff and Dartmoor, respectively?
§ Sir H. SAMUELThe vacancy at Cardiff occurred in the ordinary course owing to the retirement of the governor, Mr. Fisher, on superannuation. It was desirable on general grounds, and in his own interests, that Mr. Roberts should be transferred from Dartmoor. He is well qualified for the governorship of Cardiff, and he has been appointed to that post, retaining his rank as a Class I Governor. Major Parnall, who has been appointed to Dartmoor, has had experience as deputy-governor at Parkhurst Convict Prison and at Manchester Prison, and As governor of the Preventive Detention Prison at Camp Hill.
§ 29. Mr. McENTEEasked the Home Secretary how many prisoners are undergoing solitary confinement in Dartmoor Prison; how long they have been so treated; and what disciplinary changes are to be made at Dartmoor in future?