HC Deb 15 May 1941 vol 371 c1241
23. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Home Secretary whether he is satisfied with the penalties in force for looting; and whether he will consider the introduction of corporal punishment for this offence?

Mr. H. Morrison

The penalties provided by the Defence Regulations for this offence are death or penal servitude for life or, on summary conviction, imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months, and I do not think that any amendment is called for.

Sir T. Moore

As none of these penalties has hitherto been imposed and there has been, apparently, no lessening in these despicable offences, does not my right hon. Friend think that even a warning of flogging would be sufficient to have effect on them?

Mr. Morrison

I do not believe in warnings unless I am prepared to carry them out.

Sir T. Moore

Then carry them out.