HC Deb 28 March 1917 vol 92 c422
58. Mr. SNOWDEN

asked the Prime Minister if the Government is now prepared to follow the example of the Provisional Government of Russia, which has released all political prisoners, and order the immediate release of Petroff, Mrs. Petroff, Sairo, Hasse, and other Russian citizens who are now interned in British prisons without having had a civil trial?

Sir G. CAVE

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. The four persons named are interned under Defence of the Realm Regulation 14 B, in view of their hostile origin or associations. They have all made representations to and been heard in person by the Advisory Committee mentioned in the Regulation. In each case the Advisory Committee were satisfied that their activities or sympathies were definitely hostile to this country and her Allies. I find nothing in the recent events in Russia which would justify me in setting these persons at liberty in this country.

Mr. KING

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult the Russian Government as to their feelings about the detained persons, who are known to many leaders of the Russian Government at present and are in active sympathy with them?

Sir G. CAVE

Better wait for some application to be made.