HC Deb 04 July 1935 vol 303 cc2003-4
65. Vice-Admiral CAMPBELL

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any information concerning the case of Captain A. W. Kane, the master of the British steamer "Brompton Manor," who was recently sentenced to imprisonment at Palma, Majorca?

The MINISTER for LEAGUE of NATIONS AFFAIRS (Mr. Eden)

Yes, Sir. Captain Kane was sentenced to two years and eleven months' imprisonment on a charge of assaulting the police. An immediate appeal is being lodged against the sentence, and Captain Kane is provided with good legal advice. Pending the result of the appeal the case is still sub judice, but the British Vice-Consul at Palma is in touch with Captain Kane, and my right hon. Friend is also in communication with His Majesty's Ambassador at Madrid.

Mr. CHURCHILL

Is he still in prison or has he been allowed out on bail?

Mr. EDEN

I am not certain of that, but I have received a telegram from His Majesty's Ambassador since I came into the House, saying that he has communicated with the Spanish Government and hopes that a solution will be found whereby, whilst respecting Spanish law, any undue severity will be mitigated.

Sir HUGH O'NEILL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Captain Kane was arrested as the result of some small fracas in a cafe, and is not a sentence of two years' imprisonment for an offence of that sort extraordinary? Is he still in prison, and will the Government take every possible step to secure that the appeal is brought on as quickly as possible and that the best legal aid is given to Captain Kane in order to enable him to vindicate his character?

Mr. EDEN

The answer I have given shows that we have already taken steps in this case.

Mr. CHURCHILL

Will the right hon. Gentleman address himself also to the question of bail, pending a further decision?