HC Deb 23 March 1936 vol 310 cc880-1
57. Mr. PERKINS

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he proposes to introduce legislation connected with prison reform during this Parliament?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)

The importance of this subject is recognised but the crowded state of the legislative programme does not make it possible to propose legislation on this subject at present.

Mr. PERKINS

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that this is largely an agreed Measure and would not, therefore, take up much time in passing through the House?

Mr. BENSON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the present archaic position is handicapping the reforming efforts of the Prison Commissioners themselves?