HC Deb 28 June 1920 vol 131 cc19-20
26. Viscount CURZON

asked the Prime Minister whether the Allies have decided to proceed with the trial of the ex-Kaiser; if so, what steps they propose to take to do so; whether any proceedings have yet taken place or are to take place at Leipzig for the trial of ex-enemy subjects upon the black list; and whether the German naval offenders will be tried under British or German interpretation of international law?

The PRIME MINISTER

As regards the first and second parts of the question, I have nothing to add to previous replies on the subject. As regards the last part, an Allied Committee is now considering what steps can be taken to ensure that the proceedings at Leipzig are not unduly delayed.

Mr. BOTTOMLEY

Does the right hon. Gentleman still think that any failure to bring the ex-Kaiser to justice will constitute a gross dereliction of duty on the part of this country?

The PRIME MINISTER

Certainly it would, if the ex-Kaiser were available, but I do not think that he is worth any more bloodshed. He is now in the custody of another Power, which declines to surrender him, and I do not think it is desirable to use force.

Mr. BOTTOMLEY

Does the right hon. Gentleman really think it will involve bloodshed to insist on his surrender by Holland?

The PRIME MINISTER

Holland has refused to surrender him, and there is only one way you can compel a country.

Colonel LOWTHER

Does the right hon. Gentleman remember that the surrender of the ex-Kaiser was implicitly promised at every election?

The PRIME MINISTER

I do not know what pledge was given by my hon. and gallant Friend, but there was no pledge given by anyone that I know of that we should compel the surrender of the ex-Kaiser if he were in the hands of a neutral Power which declined to give him up.