asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what have been the emoluments of the hangman since the war.

Executioners are appointed and paid by the sheriffs, with whom it rests to fix the amount of the payment.

Does the right hon. Gentleman say he has not got this information? Will he tell us the terms of this gentleman's appointment and if he is likely to get compensation for loss of office?

No, Sir. The executioner is appointed by the sheriff. The sheriff is allowed to recover £10 for each execution if he has paid as much as that to the executioner, plus the executioner's travelling expenses. The sheriffs of cities and boroughs have to pay the executioner out of their own pockets.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is the intention of the Government to allow compensation to this gentleman for the loss of his emoluments?

No, Sir. There is no appointment of an executioner. The sheriff is entitled to engage whom he likes to perform this duty.