HC Deb 03 June 1918 vol 106 cc1205-7
15. Mr. A. RICHARDSON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can now state whom the Government propose to appoint as delegates to represent this country at the conference with Germany to arrange for the exchange of prisoners; whether they propose to include Lord Newton and General Belfield in their number; and whether the Government is prepared to afford this House an opportunity of discussing the proposed appointments before they become effective?

Mr. JAMES HOPE (Lord of the Treasury)

As I informed my hon. Friend on Friday, this is really a question for the Leader of the House, and I understand he has a Private Notice question on the subject which he will answer to-day.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS (by Private Notice)

asked the Prime Minister whether he has any statement to make with regard to the forthcoming conference at The Hague in connection with the exchange of prisoners of war?

The CHANCELLOR of the EX CHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)

In view of the importance which the Government attach to this subject, they have appointed the Home Secretary, in addition to Lord Newton and General Belfield, to act as the British delegates.

Sir F. HALL

Will the question of prisoners in Turkey be taken into consideration?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Not, of course, in connection with this delegation.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

When is the conference likely to take place?

Mr. BONAR LAW

My right hon. Friend and his colleagues propose to go in a day or two.

Mr. A. RICHARDSON

Will the House have an opportunity of discussing the appointments of Lord Newton and General Belfield before they are confirmed?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The appointments have already been made, and I should be very much disappointed if the House is not satisfied with them.

Mr. PR INGLE

Will any attempt be made to negotiate with the Turkish Government for the exchange of prisoners?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I believe efforts have been made, but I should like notice of the question.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Can the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that they will have the very widest discretion to discuss the whole question of prisoners, both in Germany and Holland?

Mr. BONAR LAW

They will have a very wide discretion.

Mr. WHITEHOUSE

Will they be protected from Lord Northcliffe's attacks?