HC Deb 27 May 1937 vol 324 cc413-4
21. Mr. Muff

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a position to announce the constitution of the committee on corporal punishment?

Sir J. Simon

At the suggestion of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland, it has been decided that the Committee shall inquire not only into the English but also into the Scottish law and practice. The Committee's terms of reference will be: To consider the question of corporal punishment in the penal systems of England and Wales and of Scotland; to review the law and practice relating to the use of this method of punishment by Juvenile Courts, by other Courts and as a penalty for certain offences committed by prisoners; and to report what changes are necessary or desirable. As already announced, the Hon. Edward Cadogan has consented to act as Chairman of the Committee. The following ladies and gentlemen have now accepted invitations to serve on it:

  • The Lady Ampthill, C.I., G.B.E.
  • Mrs. A. E. Astley.
  • Professor J. L. Brierly, O.B.E., J.P.,
  • Mr. E. Ford Duncanson, D.S.C., M.A., J.P.,
  • Dr. Robert Hutchison, M.D., F.R.C.P.,
  • Sir William McKechnie, K.B.E., C.B.,
  • Mr. H. R. Tutt, and
  • Mr. Cecil Whiteley, K.C.
My right hon. Friend and I contemplate adding one other woman member whose name will be announced as soon as possible.

Mr. Mandel.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any members of this Committee have themselves received corporal punishment?

Sir J. Simon

That is a witticism which has been perpetrated before in the House. The answer to the question may emerge in the course of the proceedings.

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