HC Deb 17 April 1917 vol 92 cc1503-4
12. Colonel YATE

asked the Minister of Munitions when the Report of the Expert Committee appointed to investigate the recent explosion in the East of London will be published?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of MUNITIONS (Sir Worthington Evans)

The Committee appointed by the Home Secretary to inquire into the cause of the explosion in EastLondon have presented their Report, but as this deals with many matters connected with the manufacture of explosives which would furnish information to the enemy, it has been decided not to publish it. A summary of the conclusions of the Committee has already been published.

Mr. PEMBERTON BILLING

Are we to understand that the Government are now satisfied that this is not the work of German agents?

Sir W. EVANS

The hon. Member must not ask me for information beyond that which is published: I would refer him to that.

Mr. BIRD

Will the hon. Gentleman afford an opportunity to the hon. and gallant Gentleman whose question this is to see the Report in private?

Sir W. EVANS

The hon. and gallant Gentleman must first see what has been published; then, if he will communicate with me, I will see what can be done.