HC Deb 30 May 1918 vol 106 c948
4. Mr. ALBION RICHARDSON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is the intention of the Government to endeavour to secure the repatriation of our soldiers of all ranks who are prisoners of war in Germany on the lines of the agreement recently concluded between Germany and France; whether any and what steps have already been taken by the Government to this end; and within what time they anticipate the necessary agreement with Germany will be concluded?

107. Mr. HUME-WILLIAMS

asked the hon. Member for Sheffield (Central Division) whether efforts are being made to induce Germany to consent to an enlargement of The Hague Agreement, which now provides for the internment of officers and non-commissioned officers in Holland who have been prisoners in Germany for eighteen months, so as to include also men who have no non-commissioned rank; what is the present state of the negotiations; and whether a conference on the subject is to be held with German delegates and how soon?

Mr. JAMES HOPE (Lord of the Treasury)

I regret that I am not at present in a position to add to the statement made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the subject on Tuesday.

Mr. RICHARDSON

Have the Government yet nominated delegates?

Mr. HOPE

They have not yet nominated delegates, but I understand they will do so shortly.

Mr. RICHARDSON

Will the House of Commons have an opportunity of considering the appointments before they become effective, and will Lord Newton be included?

Mr. SPEAKER

Notice should be given of that question.