32. Mr. DOYLEasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the note sent on 24th March, 1920, by the 1467 Allies to the Dutch Government on the question of the extradition of the ex-Kaiser has so far remained unanswered, it is proposed to take any further action, and, if not, why not; if he can state the present residence of the ex-Kaiser; and if adequate, and, if so, what measures are being taken to prevent his escape?
§ The ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir Ernest Pollock)I have been asked to answer this question. I can add nothing to the reply given on the 13th February last to the hon. Member referring him to the letter of the Prime Minister, dated 3rd November, 1920, addressed to the hon. Member for East Islington, in which the reason for not taking further diplomatic action is explained. As to the latter part of the question, I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to him on the 19th April, 1920, by the late Lord Privy Seal.
Mr. DOYLEIs it a fact that the Government are not going to take any action in regard to the answer of the Dutch Government of the 24th March, 1920? Is the matter to remain as it is at the present time?
§ Sir E. POLLOCKIt is obvious that my hon. Friend has not done me the honour to read the letter of the Prime Minister, dated 3rd November, 1920, in which he pointed out that the resources of diplomatic action had ceased, and stated that it was never contemplated that all the Allies would go to war with Holland for the purpose of securing the extradition of the ex-Kaiser.
Mr. DOYLECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether in regard to the ordinary courtesies of nations one with another the absence of a reply from the Dutch Government does not abrogate all the conditions in regard to international matters as they are understood?
§ Mr. MACQUISTENGet the Irish Republican Army to kidnap him.