Oral Answers to Questions — British East Africa (Flogging Indians).

– in the House of Commons at on 24 March 1920.

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Photo of Sir Charles Edwards Sir Charles Edwards , Bedwellty

61.

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Prisons Ordinance, 1918, gave superintendents of prisons in British East Africa and Protectorates the right to flog Indian prisoners as a disciplinary measure; and whether he will consider the desirability of an inquiry into the system?

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Leo Amery Lieut-Colonel Leo Amery , Birmingham Sparkbrook

The Ordinance referred to by the hon. Member does not deal with the matter. The Prisons Ordinance, 1914 (in Section 94), provides that for aggravated, more serious, or repeated, offences a prisoner may be sentenced to be flogged by a superintendent or a Visiting Justice. There is no distinction as to race.

Photo of Commander Hon. Joseph Kenworthy Commander Hon. Joseph Kenworthy , Kingston upon Hull Central

Is any inquiry being made into the incidence of this method of punishment in East Africa?

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Leo Amery Lieut-Colonel Leo Amery , Birmingham Sparkbrook

Yes, the whole question of how these matters affect Indians will be discussed by the Governor of British East Africa with the Secretary of State.