unruly youngsters.

But the Hon. Sir John Swan stressed courts would have to be "judicious'' in handing out corporal punishment sentences.

He also pointed out appeals against such sentences would probably succeed.

Although still on the books in Bermuda, corporal punishment was frowned upon by the European Court.

Bermuda was bound by the European Court because it was a British dependent territory, said Sir John.

"I believe the Privy Council in Britain would overturn such sentences on appeal.'' Nevertheless, Sir John said he saw circumstances in which the birch could be useful in punishment.

It could lead to reductions in prison sentences and allow people to return to the community earlier, he explained.

"I do, however, accept there is a danger in a small community of angering people by using corporal punishment,'' he said.

"That is one factor which would have to be taken into account, so it would be wrong to say I am giving blanket approval to the birch.''