HC Deb 31 October 1939 vol 352 c1720
9. Mr. Sloan

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Private Robert James, of the Royal Scots Fusiliers, stationed at Hawick camp, was sentenced to seven days confinement to barracks for picking up an extra bun that was lying on the table at tea-time; and whether he will make inquiries with a view to discouraging the imposition of punishments in similar cases?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

This case has been investigated by the brigadier commanding the 45th Infantry Brigade. The punishment referred to was imposed not only because the man in question carried off food belonging to a comrade but because he told a falsehood to a non-commissioned officer.

Mr. Sloan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I can bring unimpeachable evidence that the statement he has made is not in accordance with the facts, and that the lad "pinched" no comrade's bun?