HC Deb 25 February 1918 vol 103 cc1102-3
Colonel C. LOWTHER (by Private Notice)

asked whether there is any truth in the leading article in to-day's "Daily Mail," which states that the German Government have suggested, through neutral channels, that poisonous gas should be forbidden; and, if so, what notice the British Government intend to take of this proposal, if any?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No, Sir; no such suggestion has been received from the German Government.

Mr. BILLING

Will the right hon. Gentleman say definitely that we shall not give up the use of poisonous gas during the present War; and is it not a fact that the reason why the Germans have suggested this is that we have a better gas and better protection and that now the Huns are squealing?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I wish I were as sure of that as the hon. Member. If the Germans ever make such a suggestion I am afraid it will be because they think they are not getting the better of it. I am not at all sure it is not a blind.