51. Sir F. HALLasked the Ford Privy Seal whether the Government has given a promise that those responsible for the ill-treatment of our prisoners should be brought to justice; and whether, if there is no method except by going to war by which the Russians who were responsible for the atrocious treatment of the prisoners in their hands at Baku, it is now the intention of the Government to forego the promises they had made, and that, therefore, no punishment is to be insisted upon, but that, on the other hand, trade negotiations are to be reopened with Russia without demanding reparation for the sufferings which were borne by our prisoners of war in the hands of the Russians?
§ Mr. BONAR LAW (Leader of the House)I am not yet able to add anything to the replies which have already been given on this subject.
Sir F. HALLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the reply which he made last week that it was impossible, unless we go to war, to get any reparation for these prisoners? Is it the intention of the Government to turn these people down altogether, and to turn our backs on the agreement that was previously made?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am aware of no agreement that has not been fulfilled. Unless by means of a trade agreement or an arrangement of the kind, there is no power to put pressure on them except by going to war.
Sir F. HALLWould not it be possible to put a Clause in the agreement that those responsible for this state of affairs should be brought to justice?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister will give a full opportunity of dealing with these questions if the House desires it, and that will afford the proper opportunity of debating them.