HC Deb 02 August 1918 vol 109 c786
9. Mr. ALBION RICHARDSON

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government have yet come to a decision as to the ratification of the provisional agreement for the exchange of prisoners which was recently concluded at the Hague; and, if not, when they expect to do so?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am sorry that it is not yet possible to make a statement on this subject.

Mr. RICHARDSON

Does the right hon. Gentleman hope it will be possible to do so before the House rises?

Mr. BONAR LAW

It does not depend on us, as my hon. Friend knows. It depends on the German Government.

Sir J. BUTCHER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the extreme hardship and great suffering of our prisoners, and will the Government take every possible step to send parcels and money, which are urgently required for both our officers and men?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is quite a different question from that on the Paper.