Should Army school boys be caned?

 

An Army Apprentices School in Yorkshire, England, became the centre of national controversy – if you believe the newsreel reporter – when the commanding officer introduced caning as an alternative punishment to confinement to barracks.

This Pathe newsreel from the 1940s, reports, “Life is seldom dull” for the boys because the C.O. Col. Kindrew – “a former England rugger captain” – believes that caning is a better punishment.

The debate was whether the cadets at the Army Apprentice School, Harrogate, should be treated like soldiers or schoolboys. “The youngsters think there should be a bit of both.” “Parents see nothing wrong with the cane occasionally to enforce discipline.”

The newsreel  commentator concludes in ringing tones, “Whether they are caned or confined to barracks of sturdy, healthy boys like these, every parent can be proud.”

The video contains an out-take of two cadets discussing caning. “I prefer the cane to CB any day,” says one. The other replies, “So would I. It’s certainly a lot quicker and soon it’s over with.”

Picture credits: British-Discipline and Pathe News

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