HC Deb 06 May 1937 vol 323 c1224
21. Mr. Muff

asked the Home Secretary whether he is in a position to announce the names of the committee to inquire into the administration of corporal punishment; and whether he will include in the terms of reference an instruction to report separately on juvenile and adult delinquency?

Sir J. Simon

I have been fortunate in securing the services of the Hon. Edward Cadogan, C.B., formerly a member of this House, as chairman of this committee, and I hope shortly to announce the names of the remaining members. The terms of reference will make it clear that the committee are to examine the various provisions of the law authorising corporal punishment for both adult and juvenile offenders. No doubt the committee will take account of the different considerations affecting different aspects of the problem and frame their report accordingly.

Mr. Muff

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, may I ask that he will communicate the names of the committee as quickly as possible to the Press as a great amount of public interest is being taken in this question?

Mr. J. Griffiths

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman, in determining the numbers of those who are to sit on the committee, that he will take into consideration the advisability of having one or two women?

Sir J. Simon

A complete list of the committee will be announced as soon as possible.