HC Deb 12 March 1940 vol 358 c982
20. Mr. McGovern

asked the Secretary of State for War the number of conscientious objectors who have been arrested after being refused exemption; whether any of them have been tried for refusing to obey military commands; and, if so, the number sentenced and nature of sentence?

Mr. Stanley

I regret that the information asked for is not available.

Mr. McGovern

May I ask the Minister to obtain the information and to see that at least there should be no brutality used on these men, as there have been reports of brutal conduct towards them? May I ask for an assurance from the Minister that he will do his best to see that no brutality is used?

Mr. Stanley

I will certainly give that assurance, and if the hon. Gentleman has cases, I am surprised that he has not given them to me already.

Mr. McGovern

I will provide the Minister with the information for which he asks.