§ 25. Mr. FELLasked the First Lord of the Admiralty how he proposes to treat the question of the placing of mines on the high seas in the routes followed by merchant shipping; and what steps will be taken against any persons captured whilst engaged in laying such mines?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI can assure the hon. Member that this important question is engaging the earnest attention of the Admiralty. More than that it would not be in the public interest to say, except this—that all persons caught laying mines under a neutral flag will be tried by court-martial.
§ Mr. COWANHas the First Lord of the Admiralty considered the desirability of manning the vessels engaged in mine sweeping with German prisoners?
§ Mr. FELLMay I ask if those men will be specially treated, or if they will be treated as ordinary prisoners of war engaged in legal warfare?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI would say generally in this, as in all other matters, we will proceed with a strict and scrupulous regard for established Law.