HC Deb 16 July 1918 vol 108 cc889-90
45. Sir J. BUTCHER

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the fact that a demand is being made by the Prisoners of War Department on officers of the mercantile marine who have been interned in Germany and have been repatriated for the sum of £9 10s. 10d. each for their fare from Holland to this country; and whether, in view of the fact that these men have been declared not to be entitled to their pay during their internment and are in many cases not fit at present to seek re-employment and have not the means to make the payment demanded, he will give directions that those demands for payment should be withdrawn?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)

I am sure that the Government will not demand repayment in cases such as are defined in the question, and if my hon. Friend will give me particulars of any case of which he has knowledge I shall have inquiry made.