§ 18. Colonel YATEasked the Secretary of State for War whether the Committee now sitting to inquire into the question of utilising the labour of prisoners of war on works of national importance will take into consideration the importance to the nation of the speedy construction of the Forth and Clyde Ship Canal, and allot as many prisoners of war as possible to that work?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEIn view of the reply of my right hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the Admiralty on 2nd November to the hon. and gallant Member for Stirlingshire, the question does not appear to arise.
§ Colonel YATEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware this question is agitating the country a great deal at the present time and will he take any measures to carry out this most important work?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEThis question is one for the Admiralty to decide. As far as the War Office is concerned, we are utilising the services of prisoners of war, and we are seeking new methods of doing so in such a way as not to infringe the conventions of war.
§ Colonel Lord HENRY CAVENDISH-BENTINCKIs it not more important that prisoners of war should cultivate the land?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEYes, I am in agreement with the Noble Lord.