HC Deb 31 July 1916 vol 84 cc2080-1
Sir E. CARSON

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether he could make any statement to the House as to the intentions of the Government in relation to the murder of Captain Fryatt?

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, Sir, I deeply regret to say that it appears to be true that Captain Fryatt has been murdered by the Germans. His Majesty's Government have heard with the utmost indignation of this atrocious crime against the law of nations and the usages of war. Coming as it does contemporaneously with the lawless cruelties to the population of Lille and other occupied districts of France, it shows that the German High Command have, under the stress of military defeat, renewed their policy of terrorism. It is impossible to guess to what further atrocities they may proceed. His Majesty's Government therefore desire to repeat emphatically that they are resolved that such crimes shall not, if they can help it, go unpunished. When the time arrives they are determined to bring to justice the criminals, whoever they may be and whatever their station. In such cases as this the man who authorises the system under which such crimes are committed may well be the most guilty of all. The question of what immediate action should be taken is engaging the earnest consideration of the Government, and I hope very soon to announce to the House of Commons what we can do.

Sir E. CARSON

May I ask the Prime Minister whether, in considering the matter, he will consult his colleagues as to whether the time has not come when some Act should be passed by this House which will show that at the end of the War the German people will not be admitted within the comity of nations until these crimes have been expiated?

The PRIME MINISTER

That suggestion will be borne in mind.

Major NEWTON

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman a question of which I have given him private notice: Whether the Government will consider the claims of the widow and children of this gallant officer to some recognition at the hands of the nation.

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, Sir, that certainly will be done.