§ Mr. Abseasked the Secretary of State for War what were the circumstances in which a guardsman at Chelsea Barracks was sentenced to 112 days' detention following a suicide attempt; and what steps he is taking to ensure that, in view, of the fact that attempted suicide is no longer an offence under the Suicide Act, no disciplinary proceedings are taken by the Army authorities against a Serviceman who has attempted suicide.
§ Mr. ProfumoThe guardsman in question was tried by District Court Martial on 14th January, 1963. He pleaded guilty to three charges of malingering, a term which includes action taken with the intention of rendering oneself unfit for service. He was sentenced to 112 days' detention, which was confirmed, and was promulgated on 26th January, 1963. As the soldier's right to submit an appeal petition under the Courts Martial (Appeal) Act. 1951, extends until 5th March, 1963, it would he improper for me to make any comment on the case at this stage. I confirm that attempted suicide is not a military offence.