HC Deb 03 June 1919 vol 116 cc1813-4
42. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Ger mans in the occupied territories have to take off their hats and step off the side walk on meeting British officers; and whether this practice is likely to be discontinued on the signature of Peace?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I understand that when Germans speak to British officers they are required to take off their hats. As regards the last part of the question, I see no reason to suppose that the practice will be discontinued on the signing of Peace. It is one of the military regulations which are deemed appropriate to the period of occupation, and these regulations are very much less severe than those which the Germans were themselves accustomed to impose in conquered territory.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer my question? Are the Germans forced to take off their hats when they pass British officers in the street? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this practice is extremely unpopular among the British officers in that country, and, further, is he aware that this piece of Prussianism is not imposed where the American Armies are in occupation?

Lieut.-Colonel Sir J. NORTON GRIFFITHS

In view of the supreme importance attached to the question by the hon. and gallant Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme, will my right hon. Friend give the House an assurance that a new order will be issued, altering the state of things and compelling British officers to go off the side-walk and salute the German people?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am sure it is very foreign to the British nature to take a harsh advantage of the position in an occupied country but it is considered that an Army of Occupation in an enemy country is entitled to certain definite acts of submission and respect from the inhabitants. We believe our regulations in that respect will bear comparison with any regulations brought in by any of the great Powers in the present War, and I am certainly not prepared to say that our Army should be deprived of this.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

If the American Army do not find it necessary, why should we be compelled to demand it?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am quite content to be guided by the opinion of the officers who are responsible for the conduct of the British Army. I am quite certain that they are not likely to be on the side of undue severity.