§ 1. Mr. Mathersasked the Secretary of State for War the normal length of time taken to bring a soldier before a court-martial; and whether he will arrange that in all cases such trials shall take place without undue delay?
§ The Secretary of State for War (Captain Margesson)I regret that there are no statistics readily available which would enable me to answer the first part of the Question. As regards the second part, every effort is made to reduce to a minimum the period between arrest and court-martial, and I am considering whether any further instructions are necessary. If my hon. Friend is aware of any case in which there appears to have been 1052 undue delay, I should be very glad if he would bring it to my attention.
§ Sir John MellorWill my right hon. and gallant Friend give equal attention to the time which elapses between conviction and promulgation of sentence?
§ Captain MargessonYes, Sir. I will look at both points.