HC Deb 16 November 1917 vol 99 c732
3. Mr. PEMBERTON BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether, in addressing the Comrades of the Great War at the Mansion House, General Smuts did so in his official capacity as a member of the War Cabinet?

Mr. BALDWIN

General Smuts was not present on the occasion referred to.

Mr. BILLING

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that General Smuts wrote a letter, which contained most of the points of the speech he was going to make; is he also aware that this movement is advertising that it is prepared to obtain redress for all disabled soldiers, and acting in a political sense against the Government; and, under those circumstances, may I ask—

Mr. SPEAKER

They are fresh questions altogether.

Mr. BILLING

I put a question down, raising the point as to the political position of this association, and for some extraordinary reason it has been omitted from the Paper. I would ask whether I am in order in asking whether any soldiers are allowed to join during this War a political movement?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member had better put a question down. That does not arise out of this.