HC Deb 22 June 1938 vol 337 c1071
56. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether, in view of the recent dismissal of an aircraftman subsequent to his conviction for cruelty to a child, it is the practice always to insist on dismissal in cases of such proven cruelty; whether there are similar cases on record; whether opportunity of reenlistment is given after an appropriate period of expiation; and whether the regulations involving dismissal for proven cases of injurious treatment of children applies also in time of war?

Sir K. Wood

There are no similar cases on record. Any such case, including the re-enlistment aspect if it arose, would be considered on its merits having regard to the best interests of the Royal Air Force and of the man himself. As regards the last part of the question no such regulation exists.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the right hon. Gentleman not agree that while condemning without qualification cases of cruelty to children, it is socially unwise to punish the offender in the way that was done in this case?