§ 79. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary for the Home Department whether he proposes to institute an inquiry into the conditions obtaining at the Standon Farm school before the crime of 15th February was committed.
§ Mr. EdeYes, Sir. I have appointed the hon. and learned Member for Exeter 2224 (Mr. Maude) and my hon. Friend the Member for York (Dr. Corlett) to investigate and report on the state of discipline prevailing at the school before the crime of 15th February was committed by some of the boys, on the relations between the staff and the pupils of the school, and on all such facts and circumstances connected with the conduct of the school as may throw light on the causes contributing to the crime, including amongst other matters the arrangements for keeping arms and ammunition at the school; and to make such recommendations as they may think desirable having regard to the results of their inquiry.
§ Mr. HughesWould my right hon. hon. Friend consider extending the scope of the inquiry so as to include other schools, in order that some general rules may be laid down with regard to the conduct of these schools?
§ Mr. EdeNo, Sir. I am quite sure that the House is concerned at this particular episode, and I have endeavoured to secure the services of two hon. Members who, I hope, will carry the confidence of the House, to inquire into this specific case. I have provided terms of reference so wide that they can make recommendations of a general nature if they feel so inclined, when they have heard the evidence.