HC Deb 21 May 1952 vol 501 cc461-2
30. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the present number of juvenile delinquents now detained in West African and East African Colonies, respectively; how many are prosecuted in the course of a year; the offences for which they may receive corporal punishment; how many annually receive this punishment; and what special consideration is being given to the problem of juvenile delinquency and its appropriate treatment.

Mr. Hopkinson

I am making inquiries about the first two parts of the Question and will write to the hon. Member when I have the information. As the reply to the rest of the Question is rather long, I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Sorensen

Is special attention being given to this problem, in view of the transformation in the treatment of juvenile delinquency which has taken place in this country? Cannot we adduce from our experience here something which may be appropriate for the treatment of juvenile delinquents in the Colonies?

Mr. Hopkinson

I can assure the hon. Member that the question is exercising the mind of my right hon. Friend and that all possible means of improving the situation will be adopted.

Mr. Fernyhough

Can the Minister say what he means by "juvenile" with reference to corporal punishment and detention? What is the youngest age at which a child can be incarcerated and whipped?

Mr. Hopkinson

It varies from one Colony to another. I will make inquiries and write to the hon. Gentleman.

Following is the reply: Juvenile delinquency is a problem which my right hon. Friend regards as of great importance, and on which the Colonial Office is always working. Particular attention is being given to the extension of the probation system and the provision and improvement of approved schools and other institutions for young offenders. 2. The number of juveniles who received corporal punishment during the last full year for which figures are complete was 1,001 in West Africa, and 929 in East Africa. 3. The offences for which juveniles may be given corporal punishment in East African territories are: Kenya, Uganda, Zanzibar—any offence punishable with imprisonment.— Tanganyika—anyoffence under the Penal Code other than an offence punishable with death or any offence punishable under any other law with imprisonment. Somaliland—any offence other than murder or culpable homicide not amounting to murder.

The information for West Africa was included in the reply given by my right hon. Friend to the hon. Member on 14th May.