HC Deb 22 December 1915 vol 77 c479
77. Sir A. MARKHAM

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether Mr. Schumacher, of the firm of Schumacher and Brocker, of Aldersgate Street, is an alien enemy; whether Mr. Brocker of the firm is a naturalised German; and whether any permission has been given to Mr. Schumacher to carry on his business in competition with British firms?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir John Simon)

Mr. Schumacher is a German who has resided in England since 1889, and has been exempted on the recommendation of the Advisory Committee. Mr. Brocker is a naturalised British subject. The partners being resident in this country no permission is required under the existing law for the carrying on of the business.

Sir A. MARKHAM

Is this alien enemy still carrying on a non-essential business?

Sir J. SIMON

I cannot say whether the business is essential or non-essential; it is being carried on, but not with Germans.

Sir R. COOPER

Can any Englishmen in Germany carry on business in the same circumstances?

78. Sir A. MARKHAM

asked the Home Secretary whether Carl Fuhr, residing in Well meadow Road, Catford, who has a business in Middlesex Street, in the City, is an alien enemy or a naturalised British subject?

Sir JOHN SIMON

The person to whom the hon. Baronet probably refers is an alien enemy and was interned in November last. He has a nephew of the same name and address who was interned in June last.

Sir A. MARKHAM

Has he not been let out?

Sir J. SIMON

I am sorry to disappoint the hon. Baronet—he has not.