HC Deb 01 March 1938 vol 332 c889
2. Mr. Westwood

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is yet in a position to state what action, if any, he proposes to abolish the birching of children and young persons in Scotland?

Mr. Elliot

The report of the Inter-Departmental Committee on Corporal Punishment has just been received, and until the Government has had an opportunity of considering it I regret that I am unable to make any statement on the matter referred to in the question.

Mr. Westwood

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the protests continually coming to Members of Parliament because of the application of sentences of this kind on young children?

Mr. Elliot

It is very desirable to consider the report of the Committee which went exhaustively into this matter.

Mr. Westwood

Can we have an assurance that there will be no undue delay in coming to a decision?

Mr. Elliot

I think I can give the hon. Member that assurance.

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