HC Deb 23 November 1914 vol 68 c782
80. Mr. BRIDGEMAN

asked the Under-Secretary for War if the wearing of a brassard would insure that any person who takes part armed in the defence of his country would be regarded a combatant?

Mr. TENNANT

Subject to conditions which the hon. Member will find stated in Article 1 of the Annex to The Hague Convention of 18th October, 1907, the brassard does entitle any person wearing it to the status of a belligerent.

Mr. HUNT

Would the Germans take any notice of that if they came over here?

Mr. TENNANT

I imagine the German Government, being a party to The Hague Convention, should obey its instructions as much as any other belligerent Power.

Mr. HUNT

Is that not giving the people of this country a false security when the right hon. Gentleman knows very well that the Germans will do nothing of the sort?

Mr. TENNANT

I am afraid it is impossible for me or any other person to guarantee security such as the hon. Gentleman wants.

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Would it not be greater security to allow the people to wear uniforms?

Mr. TENNANT

I should make no objection to uniforms being quickly obtained.