HC Deb 04 June 1919 vol 116 cc1996-7
35. Brigadier-General SURTEES

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to statements made in the Press last Saturday with regard to the Greek atrocities at Smyrna; that a number of unarmed civilians and old men were massacred by the Greek soldiers; and, if so, whether those responsible for these atrocities will be put on their trial?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I regret to say that the landing of the Greek troops at Smyrna was attended by disorder and rioting, involving numerous casualties. My latest information is to the effect that the necessary measures are being taken to punish those responsible for the disturbances. Several persons caught pillaging, including two Greek soldiers, have been sentenced to death by court-martial and executed. A senior Greek officer who was at least partly responsible is being severely dealt with.

Lieut.-Colonel A. HERBERT

Does my hon. Friend realise the fact that it is we in India and in Egypt who have to bear the odium of these massacres that occur, and for the sake of the honour of the Allies will they repudiate those Greek massacres?

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