HC Deb 29 February 1916 vol 80 cc854-5
4. Mr. WALTER ROCH

asked the Secretary for Foreign Affairs if he can state shortly the form of moratorium now in force in France protecting men serving in the French Army against actions for rent and other civil liabilities?

Sir E. GREY

It would be difficult, if not impossible, to give an adequate summary of the terms of the French decree within the limits of an answer to a Parliamentary question. I shall be happy, if the hon. Member so desires, to send him a copy of the decree itself for his information, and it can be placed in the Library of the House if desired.

Mr. PRINGLE

Might it not be circulated to Members in view of the importance of the question?

Sir E. GREY

There is very great pressure upon this Department. It is very undesirable to put on them work which is not absolutely necessary. They have an unusual amount of work which is very urgent. I think that if I place a copy in the Library of the House it is possible for everybody to see it.

57. Mr. ROCH

asked the Prime Minister whether, seeing that the married men who attested under Lord Derby's scheme will shortly be called up, he will consider the necessity of giving them a moratorium against rent and other necessary liabilities?

The PRESIDENT of the LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. Long)

The Prime Minister has asked me to answer this question. The Government are carefully considering the matter, but it is not possible to make any announcement at present.

Mr. ROCH

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any indication as to when any announcement can be made seeing that this seriously affects large numbers of people?

Mr. LONG

I would rather not be pressed to make any announcement now. I can only repeat that the matter is engaging our most earnest attention, and I hope that an announcement can be made very shortly.

Mr. A. WILLIAMS

Are we to understand that the moratorium will apply to married men only and not to single men who are under the same conditions?

Mr. LONG

It is quite obvious that a question of detail of that kind cannot be answered now when I am dealing with the general question.

Sir A. MARKHAM

Is there a change of policy since the Prime Minister made his statement last week?

Mr. LONG

No.

Sir A. MARKHAM

He replied in the negative.