HC Deb 02 July 1936 vol 314 c594
19. Mr. DAY

asked the Home Secretary in what manner prisoners who are being conveyed from Portsmouth prison to Lewes Assizes are compelled to make the rail journey which involves a change at Brighton station?

Sir J. SIMON

Prisoners awaiting trial at Lewes Assizes are not confined in Portsmouth prison.

Mr. DAY

There is a transfer of prisoners from Portsmouth to Lewes; and can the right hon. Gentleman say why the men are transferred by rail, handcuffed and with chains through the handcuffs?

Sir J. SIMON

Unless my information is mistaken, the hon. Member is five years behind the time. Portsmouth prison has not been used for prisoners awaiting trial since 1931.

Mr. DAY

I said "from Portsmouth." I did not say "from Portsmouth prison."

Sir J. SIMON

If the hon. Member will look at the question on the Paper he will see that in it he refers to Portsmouth prison.

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