HC Deb 05 May 1915 vol 71 cc1087-8
44. Mr. PETO

asked the Home Secretary whether all interned prisoners in this country are now lodged on shore and the ships previously used have been evacuated; and whether these ships are now utilised by the naval and mercantile marine services of the country?

Mr. TENNANT

Three ships, of which one is not seaworthy, are still being used.

Mr. PETO

Did not the right hon. Gentleman state about six weeks ago that the last of these ships would be evacuated by 15th April?

Mr. TENNANT

I do not wish to contradict the hon Member, but my memory: does not bear out the suggestion which he; makes. I think I said that it was the desire of the War Office to release them at the earliest possible moment, and we hoped to be able to do so in the period mentioned by the hon. Member. I would point out that we have released six, and only three, of which one is not seaworthy, are still in our occupation.

Mr. PETO

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any indication how long the two seaworthy vessels will be so occupied?

Mr. TENNANT

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will repeat that question. I cannot give him the information without notice.