HC Deb 12 July 1923 vol 166 cc1611-2W
Mr. LANSBURY

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the fact that at the inquest held on Roland Duck, after his execution at Pentonville Prison last week, a severe wound was found on his head and a considerable quantity of congealed blood was attached to his hair; whether the coroner has made a report to him as to how this injury was sustained; and whether the man's father and mother, who attended the inquest, have asked the Home Office to order an inquiry as to the cause of this injury?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Reports received from the prison showed that when the body was taken down there was no mark on the head, but when the body was being washed, after removal to the mortuary and post-mortem examination of the neck by the medical officer, a bruise was noticed on the forehead. The body had slipped while being placed on the mortuary table and the head had struck the slab. The medical officer called the coroner's attention to the bruise. The coroner's inquisition was sent to me. He made no report, but I have now seen his notes, which show that the jury was satisfied that the bruise was caused after the execution. Before the inquest ended, the father said he was satisfied, but both parents have written since expressing dissatisfaction. They will be informed that I find no ground for further inquiry.