HC Deb 19 March 1947 vol 435 c387
17. Mr. Anthony Greenwood

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty in what circumstances and for what offences the writing of lines is a prescribed punishment aboard His Majesty's ships or in R.N. establishments ashore.

Mr. Dugdale

The writing of lines is not a punishment authorised in the Naval Disciplinary Code. It is neither prescribed nor prohibited in Naval educational establishments, but I am not aware that this punishment is imposed in such establishments. If the hon. Member has any particular case in mind, I shall be glad to consider the matter further.

Mr. Greenwood

Will my hon. Friend make quite clear to the House that he disapproves of this measure of punishment; that he will make his disapproval widely known throughout the Service; and that he will make sure that when men are punished they are put on more productive work than writing lines?

Mr. Dugdale

Certainly.