HC Deb 06 July 1917 vol 95 cc1474-5
10. Mr. HUME-WILLIAMS

asked the hon. Member for Sheffield (Central Division) how soon he hopes to be in a position to state whether or no an agreement has been reached with Germany relating to prisoners of war as a result of the recent Conference at The Hague, and meantime whether he can state the heads of the proposed agreement as to which the delegates were in accord?

28. Sir PHILIP MAGNUS

asked whether and, if so, when the results of the conference between the British and German delegates on the treatment and conditions of exchange of prisoners and interned subjects will be laid before the House?

Mr. J. HOPE (Lord of the Treasury)

A provisional agreement has been reached, but it cannot take effect unless and until it has been confirmed by the British and German Governments. I have not as yet sufficient information to enable me to make a statement as to the terms of the agreement, but I hope it may be possible to do so next week.

Mr. HUME-WILLIAMS

How soon does the hon. Gentleman think an ultimate agreement will be arrived at?

Mr. HOPE

I am afraid that depends not on the action of the British Government, but of the German Government.

Mr. HUME-WILLIAMS

Can any action be taken to carry out the conditions of the agreement by the British Government or not?

Mr. HOPE

No; I do not think that is a possible course to take. It could not be carried out until the respective Governments have ratified.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Will the hon. Gentleman consider, under the circumstances, the desirability of letting some Members of this House, interested in the prisoners' question, see the proposals before they are ratified by the Government?

Mr. HOPE

I will consult my Noble Friend on that point when he returns.

Sir J. D. REES

Is not one of the difficulties, when there are so many Commissions, to discover who is responsible for any particular action?

Mr. HOPE

That is a matter on which Members of the House can form their own opinion.