Sir Alexander (Alec) Henry Paterson MC (20 November 1884 – 7 November 1947) was a British penologist who, as Commissioner of Prisons, introduced reforms that would provide a humane regime in penal institutions and encourage rehabilitation among inmates. Paterson served in the East Surrey Regiment during World War I, reaching the rank of Captain and receiving a Military Cross. In 1922, he was appointed Commissioner of Prisons and Director of Convict Prisons, a position he held until his retirement in 1946. Paterson was knighted in 1947 and died shortly afterwards in London at the age of 62.