HC Deb 24 July 1918 vol 108 cc1820-1
84. Mr. PETO

asked the hon. Member for Sheffield (Central Division) whether he will give detailed particulars of the food and clothing to be sent to British and Indian prisoners in Turkey by the ship which is to convey Turkish prisoners to be repatriated under the Berne Agreement; whether the food will all be packed in airtight tins; whether the shipment will include medical requisites and comforts; when it will be dispatched; and whether he can say what prospect there is of the various consignments reaching their destinations and at what date?

Mr. J. HOPE (Lord of the Treasury)

The details asked for by my hon. Friend have been worked out by the authorities at the War Office, and I cannot give full particulars to-day. The date of shipment depends on when the Turkish Government gives the stipulated notification under the Berne Agreement, and that unfortunately has not yet been received.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

In view of the fact that the amount of food is not adequate for two months, will not my hon. Friend reconsider his decision not to give the details of the food sent?

Mr. HOPE

I am afraid I cannot give that answer offhand.

Mr. PETO

May I ask whether in this shipment any provision is being made for the Indian prisoners in Turkey?

Mr. HOPE

Oh, yes, there is.

Mr. PETO

Will it be adequate, and for how many months?

Mr. HOPE

I understand that the first shipment will take two months' supply, but I have a great deal of material which it has been impossible to comprise in the limits of a Parliamentary answer.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Is it not the fact that the clothing for the Indians will not be taken in this ship?

Mr. HOPE

I do not think so. Perhaps my Noble Friend will put the question down.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Will my hon. Friend make inquiries about that?

Mr. HOPE

My Noble Friend had better put down a question.