§ 19. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress has been made in respect of the abolition of corporal punishment as a sanction imposed by courts in the Colonies.
Mr. DugdaleSince my right hon. Friend's reply to my hon. Friend's Question on this subject on 31st January three Colonial Governments have appointed committees to consider the question of corporal punishment, while a fourth intends to take similar action.
§ Mr. SorensenDo I understand that in these cases corporal punishment has been abolished altogether except for attack on warders in prison?
Mr. DugdaleNo, Sir. All that has happened is that committees have been set up to inquire into the matter.
§ Mr. SorensenHow long is it likely to be before the committees issue their reports and the Government can take some action?
§ Mr. BaldwinIn view of the increasing crime in Colonies where corporal punishment has been abolished, will the Minister say what deterrent steps are to be taken in place of corporal punishment?
Mr. DugdaleI do not intend to get involved in the efficacy or otherwise of corporal punishment in reply to a question.