HC Deb 09 May 1918 vol 105 cc2301-2
5. Mr. LEES-SMITH

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps are being taken to inform women arrested under the new Regulation 40 d of the Defence of the Realm Acts that they do not need to subject themselves to a medical examination unless they them selves so desire?

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

I think this is clear on the face of the Regulation, and that no steps are required for the purpose mentioned in the question.

Mr. LEES-SMITH

As there is so much obscurity in the Regulation as to the right of a woman to refuse medical examination—an obscurity which was only cleared up to Members of this House by questions—does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that unless women who have been arrested are told of their legal right, the system will, in practice, be one of compulsory examination?

Sir G. CAVE

There is no need to give any such information. I believe the effect of the Regulation is well understood.

6. Mr. LEES-SMITH

asked whether in the case of a woman charged with soliciting soldiers or sailors under the new Regulation 40 d of the Defence of the Realm Act, the soldier or sailor concerned will be called to give evidence before the woman is convicted?

Sir G. CAVE

I have no authority to give directions as to the evidence to be called before magistrates. As a general rule the soldier or sailor would in these cases be called as a witness for the pro- secution, but where he is not so called and the defendant desires to call him as a witness for the defence it will be for the magistrate to give the proper directions.

51. Mr. R. M'NEILL

asked the Prime Minister whether an arrest was recently made in the West of Ireland of a man who-had been put ashore from a German submarine; whether the prisoner is now in the Tower of London; whether any charge has been or is to be preferred against him; and whether he is to be tried by a civil or a military court?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Macpherson)

An arrest has been made in the manner suggested. The man arrested is in the Tower. A charge has been preferred against him. He will be tried by court-martial.

Mr. McNEILL

Will the hon. Gentleman tell the House upon what charge this man is to be tried?

Mr. MACPHERSON

No, Sir. I cannot.

Mr. McNEILL

Will he say why secrecy has been observed in this matter, and will he give instructions for the Press to be allowed to publish full details?

Mr. MACPHERSON

It is most important in the public interest that secrecy should be observed.

Sir E. CARSON

Does the hon. Gentleman know that a full account of this matter has appeared in the Irish papers?

Mr. MACPHERSON

No, Sir.

Mr. BILLING

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether this man had any assistance?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I can add nothing to the answer I have given.