§ 67. Mr. GILBERTasked the Prime Minister whether the Government has come to any decision as to when the relatives of men killed on the Western Front will be allowed to visit the graves in France and Flanders; if he will state if any scheme is in hand whereby special fares and accommodation will be provided for such relatives who desire to go; and if he can make any statement on the subject?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I am afraid it cannot yet be stated when conditions in France and Flanders will make it possible for relatives to visit graves in those countries. In reply to the second part of the question, a committee of representatives of the voluntary organisations interested in the matter has been called together, and is considering ways and means, and I hope that they will shortly put forward a scheme.
§ Sir B. STANIERTo whom are we to apply for leave to visit the graves?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThis matter has not yet advanced sufficiently to enable applications of that kind to be dealt with. The railway communications on the Continent are severely strained at present by the demobilisation and general difficulties. I cannot hold out any expectation of this other matter, in which very natural interest is taken, being pushed forward until the congestion of the communications has been terminated by the completion of the demobilisation.
§ Mr. STANTONrose from a seat under the Strangers' Gallery.
§ Mr. SPEAKERWill the hon. Member come inside the House?
§ Mr. STANTONI was crowded out.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member should get up earlier.
§ Sir R. ADKINSDoes the right hon. Gentleman's answer apply equally to the question of visiting the graves at the Dardanelles?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI have said the whole matter is being considered. The moment communication becomes clear, action will be possible, and by that time we shall be in possession of the Report of the Committee.