HC Deb 20 July 1936 vol 315 cc13-4
17. Mr. V. ADAMS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any statement to make about Miss Elizabeth Wiskemann, a British subject, as to her recent arrest, and subsequent release, by Nazi secret police in Germany?

Mr. EDEN

I understand that Miss Wiskemann was detained by the German police for about an hour, but I have no official information as to the reasons for her detention.

Mr. ADAMS

Was not this lady arrested the same morning that she arrived from Danzig for writing an article in an English newspaper, and cannot some apology be required for her treatment?

Mr. EDEN

I have seen that explanation in the Press. Miss Wiskemann was released within an hour, and I understand that the police did treat her with politeness. In the circumstances, I do not think that any further steps are necessary.

Mr. DALTON

Has this lady made any representations to the Foreign Office about her treatment?

Mr. EDEN

Not so far as I am aware.

Mr. DALTON

If she does so, will the right hon. Gentleman give the matter his careful consideration?

Mr. EDEN

Most certainly, yes.

Mr. V. ADAMS

Did not the German authorities say that her treatment would have been more severe were it not for the necessity of keeping specially good relations with Great Britain?

Commander LOCKER-LAMPSON

Is my right hon. Friend aware that she was only guilty of telling the truth?

Mr. EDEN

I am not called upon to express an opinion about the article.

Mr. BELLENGER

Was this lady asked to leave Germany by the German Government after her examination?

Mr. EDEN

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put that question down.

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