HC Deb 20 February 1919 vol 112 c1187W
Mr. HOPKINS

asked the Home Secretary if ex-Police-Constable Herbert has been or will be again imprisoned for refusing military service as a protest against being dismissed for belonging to a trade union?

Mr. SHORTT

Ex-Police Constable Herbert was sentenced to imprisonment for disobedience to orders when called up for military service. He was temporarily discharged from prison for a month on the ground of ill-health due to his refusal of food. He should have returned to prison on the 15th instant, but has failed to do so. The reason given for his refusal to undertake military service does not in my opinion entitle him to be treated differently from others who allege conscientious objections.