HC Deb 16 November 1914 vol 68 cc179-81
16. Mr. THOMAS

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the firm of Messrs. W. T. Sargant and Sons, of 6, Mincing Lane, E.C., have been, contrary to the King's Regulations, trading with the enemy; whether he is aware that the London County and Westminster Bank, Mincing Lane branch, parted with German warrants in trust to W. T. Sargant and Sons; whether he is aware that the City police have made investigations and are in possession of all copies of correspondence, which prove that these transactions have taken place, but were prevented from prosecuting by order of someone in authority; and, having regard to the importance of this question and in the public interest, if he will state whether any prosecution in this case has been stopped by order of the Home Office?

Mr. McKENNA

I have made enquiries in the matter, which had not been previously brought to the notice of the Home Office. I find that the City police received anonymous allegations as to certain transactions by this firm, but, after inquiry, they were satisfied with regard to the transactions in question, and, no further action being necessary, did not report the matter to the Home Office. The firm had received express authority from the Board of Trade to sell certain goods which had been imported into Germany before the commencement of the War.

Mr. THOMAS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware the police were informed by two employés—men of position—who resigned their posts in this firm as a protest; further, is he aware that the police themselves informed these men that the Home Office had stopped the prosecution?

Mr. McKENNA

No, Sir.

Sir TUDOR WALTERS

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire into the assertion that all these goods dealt with were sent into Germany in May and June, prior to the outbreak of the War, and will he make inquiry as to and ascertain the bona fides of the people who made these grotesquely incorrect allegations against this respectable firm?

Mr. McKENNA

I will make further inquiries if the hon. Member desires. I have given all the information I have.

Mr. THOMAS

Will the right hon. Gentleman also inquire as to the statement bandied about in regard to a very prominent public official, who is supposed to be a relative of this firm, and will he, in fairness to that gentleman, investigate the matter thoroughly?

Mr. McKENNA

Yes, I will investigate the matter as thoroughly as I can.