HC Deb 08 March 1938 vol 332 cc1702-3
34. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he now has information respecting the number of times corporal punishment was administered to native prisoners in Northern Rhodesia during 1937, and the last quarter of that year?

The Comptroller of the Household (Captain Waterhouse)

I have been asked to reply to this question. Corporal punishment was inflicted on 87 native prisoners in Northern Rhodesia during 1937, in all cases for prison offences. The punishment consisted in all cases of caning, and not whipping. I regret that specific figures are not available for the last quarter of the year, but the Northern Rhodesia Government are obtaining this information and I will communicate it to the hon. Member.

Mr. Sorensen

Can any representations be made suggesting that the number of punishments of this character shall at least be considerably diminished?

Captain Waterhouse

I will convey that request to my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Sorensen

I am much obliged to the hon. and gallant Gentleman.