DEBTORS IN PRISON.

Hokitika Guardian, 11 February 1924, Page 1

DEBTORS IN PRISON.

LOXIIOX. Xov. -28. Afore prisoners under sentence were received in 1922-23 than in 1921-22. the Commissioners of Prisons and the Directors of Convict Prisons state in their report, issued last night. The increase was 3,910. and of this increase no fewer than 3.728 were debtors. Serious crime, so far a.s can lie judged l>v commitment to prison does not appear to Ice increasing. As last year, the increase in the total number of receptions into prison under sentence is largely due to unemployment. Xo doubt this increase would be greater than it is were it not for the unemploymentbenefit. As regards many debtors, the report states, “the taxpayer maintains them, and the creditor of the woman who is ill liocil of support usually 1 nothing." Veiling prisoners received who had no previous convictions were: Boys. 1,590; girls. 150. The experience of another year confirms the opinion we expressed last year, that persons under 21. if they continue to be committed to prison should l*e placed in separate establishments where there arc no adults. Lectures in prison, the report states, are now more? numerous. A brief account of the chief events of public interest during the week is given, usually on Saturday or Sunday. Concerts of good music have I teen given regulariy in the local prisons, and the prison audiences have enjoyed some very line performances. I.duration is the object. A. light item once in a way is allowed, I here is no reason why prisoners should never laugh. “General shaving.” the report states, “has now been introduced, and promotes sol f-respeet. ’ ’ The men shave themselves, or are shaved, at least two or three times a week. Safety razors only are used.