§ Mr. T. Smithasked the Home Secretary how many officers of the prison service have been awarded periods of special probation during the last two years; what additional punishment was given in each case; how many officers were transferred from one establishment to another in connection with the special probation; and in how many cases was the officer permitted to be represented by his union at the inquiry?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonSince 1st November, 1939, 24 prison officers out of staff, which has varied between 1,600 and over 2,000, have been awarded periods of special probation. In six cases no additional punishment was given; in 7 cases the officer was reprimanded, and in 10 cases severely reprimanded; and in one case the officer was removed from a special post and reverted to discipline duty. Three of these officers were transferred to other establishments. As regards the last part of the Question, it must be remembered that this is a disciplined service, and while a prison officer is always permitted 1019W at a disciplinary inquiry to have present as a "friend" an officer who is serving with him, I could not agree that any other person should attend for the purpose of acting as representative of the officer or of any association.