HC Deb 13 August 1940 vol 364 cc580-1
9. Mr. Burke

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Australian Government have recognised the position of refugees as coming under the Convention dealing with prisoners of war and not under the purview of the League of Nations?

The Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Mr. Shakespeare)

I assume that the hon. Member has in mind the case of persons sent from this country for internment in Australia. Internees in Australia will be treated in accordance with the International Convention relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

Mr. Burke

Does that reply mean that the names of persons who are refugees may be passed over to a neutral country and thence to Germany?

Mr. Shakespeare

I will look into that point.

Mr. Wedgwood

Does the reply mean that the names of these prisoners of war will be given to the German Government?

Mr. Shakespeare

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put that Question on the Paper.

Back to