HC Deb 28 July 1926 vol 198 c2078
3. Mr. RENNIE SMITH

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if any inquiry has been made into the conduct of the international police force at Tangier with respect to the charge that prisoners have been tortured in order to extort confessions from them; and whether he can make any statement on the matter?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

On the 22nd July the International Assembly voted a resolution inviting the Mendoub to nominate a commission of inquiry. I hope that effect will be given to this request.

Mr. SMITH

As the alleged cruelties were reported about three weeks ago, could not the right hon. Gentleman make some further statement as to the action which has been taken?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

As I say, on the 22nd July the Assembly passed a resolution inviting the Mendoub to appoint a Commission, and I hope the Mendoub will comply with that request. The Commission has not yet been appointed, and therefore it has neither inquired nor reported.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is there any likelihood of an Englisman being on this Commission of Inquiry?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I cannot say.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Has the right hon. Gentleman made any representations as to the desirability of an Englishman being on the inquiry?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

No, Sir.

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