HC Deb 11 August 1919 vol 119 cc886-7
83. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that three Lithuanians are still in prison in Glasgow, although their sentence has long since expired; why they are kept in prison; and when it is proposed to release them?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Shortt)

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. The persons referred to by the hon. and gallant Member were convicted for offences under the Public Meeting Act, 1908, and were recommended for expulsion; they have been detained under the powers of the Aliens Act, 1905, as it has not hitherto been possible to arrange passages to Russia. In all the circum- stances, I have given directions that if adequate sureties for their good behaviour can be found they shall be released.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these are not Russians but Lithuanians, with which country we are on friendly terms, and why should there be any difficulty in deporting them?

Mr. SHORTT

Because the Court that convicted them so recommended.