HC Deb 06 May 1915 vol 71 cc1249-50
25. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Attorney-General whether his attention has been called to Lord Lindley's and Lord Wrenbury's views that the Continental Tyre case, permitting alien enemies formed into an English company to carry on their trade, etc., here, should be carried to the highest tribunal; and, if so, whether he will consult the Board of Trade with a view to such appeal being carried out?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir J. Simon)

What is practically important in this matter is to secure that while British shareholders get their dividends as usual, enemy shareholders should not, and that no company registered in this country should be allowed to carry on its business in time of war save under British control and save in a way which is an advantage to this country. These practical objects are being secured under the emergency legislation which has already been passed, and I do not think an appeal in the Continental Tyre case would in any way improve the position.

Mr. BUTCHER

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of legislation?

Sir J. SIMON

Yes, Sir. The desirability of legislation was considered by the whole. House last autumn, and the legislation to which I have referred was passed with the consent of the whole House with the object I have indicated.

62. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the responsibility for the non-removal of alien enemies from the prohibited areas lies with the Secretary of State for the Home Department or with himself; and, if with himself, what is the reason for allowing so many to remain in such areas in spite of the raids, both naval and aerial, which the enemy has made?

Mr. TENNANT

The responsibility for the removal of enemy aliens rests with the Chief Constable, who is directed, in case of doubt, to consult the military authorities. The military authorities have also independent power, udder the Defence of the Realm Regulations, to remove suspected persons of whatever nationality, but I am advised that enemy nationality alone is not sufficient ground for removal.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Is it the War Office view that it is in the interests of the country to leave this largo number of enemy aliens in prohibited areas on our coasts?

Mr. TENNANT

All enemy aliens as to whom there is ground for suspicion are-removed. Those as to whom there is no suspicion are not.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Then unless there is actual suspicion in the mind of the War Office with regard to the individual enemy alien, there is no objection to their remaining in prohibited areas?

Mr. TENNANT

All enemy aliens who live in prohibited areas are the subject of constant watchfulness and care.