§ Mr. DEVLINasked the Secretary of State for War whether he can make any statement as to what sentences were imposed on the soldiers of the Connaught Rangers who recently mutinied in India; whether 14 of them were sentenced to be shot, but had their sentences commuted to 20 years' imprisonment; whether upwards of 50 are serving terms of imprisonment; and whether he will reconsider these cases with a view to reducing the severity of the sentences?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThis case lies within the jurisdiction of the Commander-in-Chief in India and the Viceroy. The proceedings of the trial are still in India and without calling for a special report I am unable to give a detailed answer to the hon. Member's question, as I am not aware how the sentences of the Court stand at present nor to what extent they have been varied. I understand however that 14 of the mutineers were sentenced to death, that 13 of the sentences have been commuted, and that the sentence on the remaining soldier was carried out on the 2nd November.