HC Deb 02 July 1917 vol 95 cc753-4
57. General Sir IVOR PHILIPPS

asked whether, in view of the strictures passed upon the Central Prisoners of War Committee in the Report of the Joint Committee appointed to inquire into its organisation and methods, and the distress and suffering inflicted on our British prisoners of war in Germany by the neglect, omissions, and failure of the Central Prisoners of War Committee, the members of that Committee have placed their resignation in the hands of His Majesty's Government; and, if not, whether it is proposed to remove these gentlemen from positions in which they can continue to cause suffering and misery to British soldiers?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer to both parts of the question is in the negative. I do not read the Report as expressing any general condemnation of the Central Prisoners of War Committee, which has been throughout confronted with exceptional difficulties. The Report concludes with the following words: "We desire to call attention to the organising capacity and the great zeal that have been displayed in creating the establishment at Thurloe Place. It was an undertaking of great magnitude, and the success now attained reflects much credit upon all concerned."

Sir IVOR PHILIPPS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Report states that the "privations endured by our men for want of bread might have been very much mitigated if not altogether relieved," and that the Central Committee's neglect to take action was "of fundamental importance, and that our prisoners of war suffered real hardship owing to want of medicinal and medical comforts"?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Are those the words, of the Report?

Sir IVOR PHILIPPS

The Report says that the neglect of the Central Committee was of fundamental importance.

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not say that the Report praises them altogether, but I do say that they have done a very difficult work with a considerable amount of success.

Sir IVOR PHILIPPS

Does the Government propose to adopt the recommendations of the Committee?

Shall I put that down as a question? It is a very important matter.

Mr. SPEAKER

We are not now debating this matter.

Sir IVOR PHILIPPS

I am not debating it. I was asking a question.

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member is entitled to ask questions, but not to make observations.