§ 54. Sir W. Davisonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the fee of the hangman and other expenses in connection with the execution of criminals condemned to death, has to be paid by high sheriffs out of their own pocket; what is the usual amount of the charges so incurred; and whether steps will be taken to relieve high sheriffs of an expense which should be borne by the Exchequer?
§ Sir K. WoodAn executioner is engaged and paid by the high sheriff, who, if appointed by the Crown, may recover from the Exchequer the amount of his voucher payments to the executioner within the limits of £10 for the first and £5 for each additional prisoner executed at the same time, together with the executioner's reasonable travelling expenses including third class fare by rail. I have received no representations to the effect that these allowances are insufficient to cover the actual charges. Sheriffs of cities and towns are appointed by the local authorities, and their expenses in connection with executions are not recoverable from the Exchequer.
§ Sir W. DavisonIs my right hon. Friend aware that an ordinary execution involves a high sheriff in an expenditure of about £25, including the fee for the hangman, provision of the hempen rope, and also a fee for the under-sheriff for 1414 seeing that the hangman does his duty properly?
§ Sir K. WoodI am not aware of those particulars, but I will gladly study them if my hon. Friend will let we have them.
§ Mr. ThorneCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the hangman has to have a rehearsal before he is engaged?
§ Sir K. WoodThat is another story.