CO129-376 - Governor Sir Lugard - 1911 [3-4] — Page 285

Dated

28th March 1911.

OPY.

Enclosure 2.

REC

3:0

Sir,

Prison Department,

Hongkong, 15th. February, 1911.

274

PETITION

of James Moncur McLeod, Warder of

Victoria Gaol.

I have the honour to bring to your notice the

attached notes of evidence re the escape of Chinese Prisoner No. 517 on the 13th. instant.

Principal Warder McLeod when giving evidence against Guard Tehel Singh stated he missed No. 517 when visiting D Hall at 2.40 p.m. the 13th. instant for the purpose of issuing dry earth etc., whereas he did not in fact visit D Hall until called there by Warder Ellis who reported to him that No. 517 was missing (vide A of notwof evidence.)

An Officer who will tell such untruths cannot be trusted in his evidence against prisoners, and I therefore consider that Principal Warder McLeod is unfit for the post he holds. I attach his character roll. The record is not satisfactory.

He has been reduced to the rank of Warder by

the Hon. Superintendent of the Gaol for telling a falsehood and I am now directed to submit the same for confirmation by His Excel- -lency the Governor under rule No. 12(3) of the Prison Rules.

I have etc..

(Sd.) R. H. A. Craig,

Asst. Supt.

Wilkinson & Grist

Solicitors &c.

Hongkong.

The Hon. Colonial Secretary.