HC Deb 20 January 1942 vol 377 cc182-3
9. Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether reconsideration can be given to the Askari Disciplinary Code, announced in the Gazette of Southern Rhodesia, No. 35, of 29th August last, which provides for the flogging of native volunteer soldiers; and whether all such disciplinary punishments of men in the fighting forces of the territories for which he is responsible can be reviewed?

Mr. Shakespeare

The Regulations in question do not differentiate between Europeans and natives, and are entirely within the competence of the Southern Rhodesia Government. The hon. Member's Question will be communicated to the Southern Rhodesia Government, but I would point out that it has been considered necessary in other African Territories to retain the power to impose corporal punishment in the case of African Military personnel.

Mr. Creech Jones

What is the degree to which this punishment operates, and is it at all restricted to particular offences?

Mr. Shakespeare

Yes, Sir. The powers taken in the Code are severely restricted, and are applied in the case of African military personnel in the case of very grave offences, like rape and looting when the troops are on the march.

Mr. Sorensen

Has this punishment been inflicted on any white soldiers?

Mr. Shakespeare

I should require notice of that Question.