HC Deb 25 February 1918 vol 103 cc1093-4
50. Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether the British Government propose to have a representative at the Caillaux trial; and, if so, who that representative will be?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No, Sir.

Mr. BILLING

Are the Government anxious, or are they not anxious, to take advantage of information available with regard to German intrigue in this country, and, under these circumstances, will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider that decision, and send someone to the Caillaux trial to hold a watching brief for Britain?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Our interests would be very inadequately served if we had not a better means of doing this than that of sending out a representative.

51. Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether any steps have been taken to ascertain the identity of the person referred to as Robert as being the recipient of Bolo's advances and confidences in this country?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir George Cave)

My right hon. Friend bus asked me to reply to this question. Inquiries are being made by the police.

Mr. BILLING

But will the right hon. Gentleman say when inquiries were made, and whether it is not a fact that had the Government had a representative present at Bolo's trial they might have found out there without waiting till afterwards?

Sir G. CAVE

I do not think it would help the police in the least to discuss their arrangements.

Mr. LLEWELYN WILLIAMS

Is it not a fact that Robert is a man who has spent more than twelve months at the front fighting for England?

Sir G. CAVE

I hope my hon. and learned Friend will give me all the information.

52. Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether any diplomatic official or informal representations have been made by the British Government to the French Government requesting the suppression of any evidence which would either directly or indirectly involve any public men in Great Britain in connection with the Bolo or Caillaux trials?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No, Sir.