§ Mr. HAYDAYasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Elizabeth Micklewright, who was sentenced at the Walsall Guildhall to six months' imprisonment for failing to observe the conditions of her recognisances; whether he is aware that this young girl is only 17 years of age; and whether he will have inquiries made into this case, with a view to remission of some part of the sentence?
§ Major BAIRDMy right hon. Friend has made inquiry with regard to this case. The girl pleaded guilty to larceny and was put on probation, but failed to obey the conditions and was doing no work and was obviously falling into evil courses. In these circumstances the Justices passed a sentence of six months for her original offence in order that she might receive the modified Borstal training now given in prison: and, as the Prison Authorities are satisfied her best chance is to continue such training, I cannot advise any remission.