§ 36. Lieut.-Colonel Liptonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proposals to restore flogging he is now considering.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeThe matter is under constant review, but I must not be taken as assenting to the proposition that the case for restoring corporal punishment either for the offences for which it could formerly be awarded or for a wider range of offences has been established or that this controversial matter in one requiring an urgent solution.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonCan the Home Secretary either explain or amplify a statement made recently by the Lord Chancellor which seemed to suggest that this matter is under active consideration, thus leading to the assumption that the Government might be changing their mind in the near future?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI stand by the first words of my answer, that the matter is under constant review. The question of dealing with crime must be under constant review. I think the remainder of my answer showed a proper approach.
§ Sir T. MooreWhen is this constant and active review likely to lead to results, especially in view of the growing wave of bestial crimes, which are mounting up every day?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeMy hon. and gallant Friend makes that statement, but for the good name of the country as a whole it ought to be made clear that the figures of the crimes previously punishable by corporal punishment have not risen but have steadily declined.
§ Mr. G. ThomasWhile appreciating that this and similar problems are bound to be under constant consideration, may I ask whether the Home Secretary is aware that enlightened opinion throughout the country hopes that he will be able to continue the present system, the results of which show a constant improvement?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI have taken all points into consideration. I think I have fairly expressed the opinion of the House.