§ Mr. FOOTasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that his predecessor promised that the system under which an escaping prisoner might be punished on 2958W his recapture by being chained would be reconsidered with a view to its abolition; and whether a decision in relation to this system has yet been arrived at?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThis matter has received careful consideration. Leg-irons and cross-chains are not now used, and will not be used in ordinary cases of attempted escape, but I should not be justified in withdrawing altogether the Rule which authorises their use not as a punishment, but as a precaution in very exceptional cases.