Mr. Gandar Dowerasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that Private Sutherland and Lance-Corporal Lynch, of the A. & S.H., Private Simpson of the K.O.Y.L.I. and Private J. Sweeney have been under close arrest in Vienna since 19th June and were tried by a field general court martial commencing 2nd September and lasting four-and-a-half days; and, in view of the desirability of speedy promulgation of sentences to obviate the mental distress from which the soldiers and their relatives are suffering, if he will take steps to avoid a recurrence of such incidents.
§ Mr. BellengerAny delays in the promulgation were due only to the necessity of ensuring justice and fair sentences. A sentence awarded by a court martial is normally subject to confirmation before it is promulgated to the accused. In the case of a death sentence the accused is notified at once but is told that the sentence is subject to confirmation.