HC Deb 28 July 1908 vol 193 cc1229-30
MR. FELL (Great Yarmouth)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if the rapid release of Mr. Clark Kennedy from the brigands in Morocco was owing to the fact that the Government announced that no ransom would he paid; and if this resolution will be strictly adhered to in the future.

SIR EDWARD GREY

The Answer to the first part of the Question is that I do not know. If British subjects, in pursuit of their own pleasure or business, and in no public character, are captured by brigands in Morocco, there will certainly not be any advance from the British Exchequer for the purposes of ransom, and anyone who counts upon it under any circumstances is likely to be disappointed.

MR. FELL

Will that also apply to captures by Smyrna and other brigands?

SIR EDWARD GREY

We have issued a warning to the effect that in no case must people expect the Government to advance money for their ransom.

MR. ASHLEY

Has the right hon. Gentleman made an exception in the case of Raisuli?

SIR EDWARD GREY

He is not a British subject. He is under British protection, which is not the same thing.