§ 34. Mr. McENTEEasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the 2144 Prison Commissioners are advertising for a farm bailiff for Dartmoor Prison at a salary of approximately £1 per week more than the present bailiff receives, and that during the tenure of office of nearly three years of the present bailiff many first, second, and third class prizes have been won for cattle at local and district shows; what is the reason for the pending change; and whether the present holder of the office has been informed that he was not giving satisfaction?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe post of farm bailiff at this prison has not been filled for some years. On the death of the last bailiff it was decided, owing to uncertainty as to the future of the prison and of the farm, not to fill the post, and, as a temporary expedient, two officers of the prison have been employed in succession on the work and given a special allowance. As it has now been decided to maintain and to make more extensive use of the farm property, it has become necessary to appoint a qualified bailiff, and the Prison Commissioners have advertised for candidates accordingly.
§ Mr. McENTEEAre we to understand that the bailiff who has been carrying out that work is not qualified? Has any complaint been made to the right hon. Gentleman to that effect?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThis was a temporary arrangement with one of the ordinary officials of the prison, who is not fully qualified as a farm bailiff.