The Cat and Mouse Act

The government feared that suffragettes might die from starvation and become martyrs, so they implemented a force-feeding policy. This policy was met with controversy, leading to the introduction of the Temporary Discharge of Ill Health Act. This act allowed suffragettes to go on hunger strikes, be released when ill, and re-arrested once recovered, a cycle known as the Cat and Mouse Act.

Why did the government introduce a force-feeding policy for suffragettes?

• To ensure they received proper nutrition

• To support their cause

• To improve their health conditions

• To prevent them from becoming martyrs

What was the main reason for the controversy surrounding the force-feeding policy?

• It was too expensive

• It was ineffective

• It was supported by the public

• It involved violent scenes

What did the temporary discharge of ill Health Act allow suffragettes to do?

• Be released permanently

• Go on hunger strike

• Avoid imprisonment

• Receive better medical care

What happened to suffragettes once they recovered from illness under the new act?

• They were rearrested

• They were pardoned

• They were released permanently

• They were sent to a hospital

Why was the act referred to as the 'Cat and Mouse Act'?

• Due to its effectiveness

• Because it was a game of strategy

• Due to its repetitive nature

• Because it was a playful policy