§ 21. Mr. McGovernasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has considered the case, details of which have been sent to him, of Private Philip Samuels, 3rd City of Glasgow Home Guards, who has been sentenced to 56 days' detention for refusing to carry out an order relating to dress; and, as Private Samuels adopted this mistaken attitude in the belief that he would thereby be able to bring to the notice of his commanding officer a number of grievances at his trial and expressed regret, and although Grade 4 he enrolled voluntarily in the Home Guard, will he consider remitting the remainder of his sentence?
§ Sir J. GriggPower to remit all or part of sentences awarded by courts-martial is delegated to General Officers Commanding-in-Chief of Commands, and I do not think it advisable to interfere with this power. I have, however, asked for a report of this case.
§ Mr. McGovernDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider that the sentence imposed on this man, who has a business to look after, is a fair sentence?
§ Sir J. GriggI am asking for a report, and I think I had better postpone answering the hon. Member's question until I get it.