HC Deb 22 February 1951 vol 484 cc1443-5
27. Mr. Black

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how far cases of cruelty to children and animals have increased in recent months; and whether he is satisfied that adequate penalties are being imposed to bring home to those concerned the serious character of this class of offence.

Mr. Ede

The average monthly number of persons found guilty in magistrates' courts of cruelty to or neglect of children was 74 in 1949 and 78 in the first 11 months of 1950, and of cruelty to animals 65 and 69. I have no reason to doubt that the maximum penalties prescribed by the law are adequate, but it is not within my province to express an opinion on the adequacy of the penalties imposed by the courts in particular cases.

Mr. Black

Bearing in mind the very grave concern that exists on matters of this kind, can the Home Secretary assure the House that he is keeping this matter under continual observation, and that if

Mr. Nabarro

In view of the grave difficulty to date in getting recruits for the Civil Defence Corps, would the Home Office urgently consider formulating plans for recruiting industrial Civil Defence officers and men?

Mr. de Freitas

The question of industrial Civil Defence is being considered at present, and I expect to make a statement on the matter within a few weeks.

Following are the figures:

any further action does seem to be necessary he will not hesitate to act?

Mr. Ede

I recognise the state of public opinion in the matter, and my observation leads me to the conclusion that it has had some effect on the magistrates' courts. If further action were, in my opinion, called for I would take it. I would remind the hon. Gentleman, who is a magistrate of long experience, that the foundation of liberty in this country is that magistrates are completely free from supervision and dictation by the Executive, and while I remain Home Secretary I shall bear that in mind.

Mr. Somerville Hastings

Will my right hon. Friend also consider the importance of the prevention of these two evils by early recognition of any suggestion in that direction, and by help and encouragement?

Mr. Ede

I would far sooner see cruelty to children prevented than punish it after it has occurred, and I have, in conjunction with the Salvation Army, enabled that body to start a home in Plymouth at which feckless mothers, while still living with their families, can get advice and help on the proper way to live in family life.

Sir Ronald Ross

Is it possible for the Home Office, without interfering with the magistrates' discretion, to give them guidance on the principles involved in these cases?

Mr. Ede

I think that they are sufficiently informed on that matter.