HC Deb 09 August 1920 vol 133 c37
98. Mr. MILLS

asked the Secretary of State for War if his attention has been called to the alleged persecution of Lieut. C. H. Glendenning, 3rd Royal Irish Rifles, who was arrested in 1917 while on active service and detained in a wire compound, with a German spy under an armed guard, at Bombay; and whether he will take steps to ensure this officer such redress as can be obtained under Section 42 of the Army Act?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply on the 6th May last to the hon. Member for Wrekin. As regards the last part of the question, if an officer wishes to claim redress under the Army Act, it is for him to take the initiative in the matter.

Mr. MILLS

Has he not taken the initiative for a period of 18 months?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I do not know.

Mr. MILLS

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire?

Mr. LAWSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there have been articles in almost every newspaper in London on this case and that there are a good many people who feel that this man has a claim on the State, but the War Office are afraid to face the situation?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am afraid I cannot add to the information contained in the answer I have just given. I see I gave an answer on the 6th May in regard, I think, to a stigma of lunacy said to attach to this officer, and I refer the House to that answer.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that four columns on this appeared in "John Bull"?

Mr. BOTTOMLEY

Of course, he is.

Mr. CHURCHILL

It is no part of my duty to read "John Bull."