HC Deb 30 October 1918 vol 110 cc1458-9
47. Mr. R. GWYNNE

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of appointing a second Committee, similar to that presided over by Mr. Justice Sankey, so that the cases of internment or repatriation of enemy aliens may be dealt with more expeditiously?

Sir G. CAVE

I do not think this desirable. The Committee have great experience, and are making good progress. I do not think it would conduce to expedition to hand over part of the work to another Committee.

Mr. GWYNNE

How many cases have been dealt with, and how many remain to be dealt with?

Sir G. CAVE

I cannot answer that without notice. I will inquire if the hon. Gentleman puts down a question.

Mr. GWYNNE

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that anyone else will be before the Committee?

48. Mr. GWYNNE

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the possibility of a General Election in the near future, he will introduce legislation to prevent anyone of enemy alien birth, whether naturalised or unnaturalised, having the right to sit in Parliament or on municipal and local councils?

Sir G. CAVE

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House to the hon. and learned Member for the Ealing Division last Thursday.

49. Mr. GWYNNE

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the possibility of a General Election in the near future, he will appoint additional Committees, similar to that presided over by Mr. Justice Atkin, so that the certificates of naturalisation granted to aliens can be reviewed without further delay, and so prevent all those who are proved to be undesirable from exercising the franchise at the forthcoming General Election?

Sir G. CAVE

This Committee is making good progress with its work, and I do not think it necessary to appoint an additional Committee.