HC Deb 26 May 1919 vol 116 cc822-3
45. Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALL

asked the Prime Minister if his attention has been called to the report which has been published in the "Daily Herald" with regard to the conditions obtaining at Les Attaques Military Prison, near Calais; if, as there stated, men are confined in this camp for trivial offences such as the over staying of leave for a few days; if they are supplied with only one blanket each in the coldest weather and are flogged and placed in irons and handcuffs for conversing with each other; and, if there are no grounds for these charges, will he consider as to the taking of criminal proceedings for the publication of such reckless and libellous statements for the purpose of bringing the Army into disrepute?

Mr. FORSTER

The Report from France has now been received, and it shows that the allegations referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend are quite unfounded. The men are supplied with the same number of blankets as all other troops on the lines of communication living under canvas. No men are put in irons unless the governor of the prison is satisfied that it is necessary on account of violence. As regards the offences for which men are confined in the camp, these are of all descriptions, and include the most serious criminal offences, as well as comparatively small offences for which short sentences have been awarded.

Sir F. HALL

Will the Government forthwith take steps against those who have circulated these reports, which are detrimental to the interests of the British Army and will the right hon. Gentleman take immediate steps in the matter, because this question has now been on the Paper for fourteen or sixteen days waiting for this Report?

Mr. FORSTER

We will consider it.

Sir F. HALL

Is not all this libellous? Does the right hon. Gentleman not appreciate how libellous it is on the British soldiers and officers, and surely, under the circumstances, they are entitled to the protection of this House and of the country?

Mr. FORSTER

I say that the matter will be considered.

Sir F. HALL

Will it be done?

Colonel C. LOWTHER

Surely the character of the governor of this prison should be cleared?

Mr. FORSTER

I hope I have cleared it.

An HON. MEMBER

Were any of them flogged?

Mr. FORSTER

No, Sir. So far as I know there were no cases of that sort.