HC Deb 31 January 1918 vol 101 cc1747-8
76. Mr. G. FABER

asked the hon. Member for Sheffield (Central Division) if he will state the respective dates when Captain von Muller, of the "Emden," and Lieutenant von Tirpitz became our prisoners of war; and whether their release from this country for internment in Holland was made strictly according to their priority of capture in conformity with the arrangement recently entered into with Germany by our Government?

Mr. JAMES HOPE (Lord of the Treasury)

I am informed that Lieutenant von Tirpitz was captured on 28th August, 1914, and Captain von Müller on 9th November. Their internment is strictly in accordance with the provisions of The Hague agreement as to priority of capture.

Mr. FABER

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether, if the Germans on their part made arrangements to release prisoners, we should know it?

Mr. HOPE

Certainly we should know it after it had taken place, but we cannot have a consignment of prisoners delayed until a list is sent to us to be certified. When the prisoners come into Holland a record is kept.

Sir CHARLES HENRY

is the House to understand that no special request was made?

Mr. HOPE

I have not heard of any such suggestion.

Mr. FABER

Can the lion Gentleman say how many have been released on each side?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must give notice of that question.