HC Deb 25 November 1914 vol 68 c1101
42. Mr. HUME-WILLIAMS

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many naturalised Germans have been interned since the War began, because their actions have rendered them open to suspicion without being guilty of actual espionage; and whether he will consider the advisability of obtaining further powers to enable him to deal with naturalised persons whose actions are suspicious without being actually illegal?

Mr. McKENNA

British subjects, whether naturalised or natural-born, of German origin are not liable to be interned. Internment is a military measure which is applicable only to alien enemies. The very wide powers which are given by the Defence of the Realm Acts, which will be further extended by the Bill now before the House, apply to all persons whose actions are suspicious.