HC Deb 11 February 1942 vol 377 cc1499-500
7. Mr. A. Edwards

asked the Secretary of State for Air what compensation he proposes to offer in a case of which he has been informed, for illegal sentence whereby an aircraftman was placed under close arrest for nearly 100 days without trial; and what disciplinary action is to be taken against the group captain for his irregular procedure and illegal sentence of this prisoner?

Captain Balfour

I am aware of the case to which the hon. Member refers, but I must not be taken as accepting the facts as stated in the Question. The hon. Member alleges an illegality, the consequences of which might in certain circumstances require determination elsewhere, and it would be improper for me either to comment on the facts or to appear to prejudge the issues.

Mr. Edwards

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that there is no authority for an officer to sentence a man to more than 14 days, that this man was sentenced for 28 days and has been detained for more than 100 days without trial, and threatened with further detention unless he changed his attitude?

Captain Balfour

I cannot accept the facts as stated by the hon. Member, and if there has been illegality such as he alleges, it may well be that it falls to be determined in some other place. It would not be for me to prejudge that particular issue.

Mr. Edwards

On a point of Order—

Mr. Speaker

The Minister has given the answer that he cannot say more.

Mr. Edwards

I wish to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment.