HC Deb 26 July 1939 vol 350 cc1430-1
1. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister what representations have been made to the British by the German Government with regard to the issue to German subjects in Germany of statements of opinion and fact by Commander Stephen King-Hall; and what reply has been sent?

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Butler)

None, Sir.

Mr. Mander

Have any suggestions on this subject been received from His Majesty's Ambassador in Berlin?

Mr. Butler

Naturally we have communications from His Majesty's Ambassador in Berlin in the ordinary course of business. We have had no official representations from the German Government.

Mr. Mander

Is there any objection to British subjects exercising their liberty to tell the truth as they see it to German subjects?

Mr. Duncan

Is it quite clear that Commander Stephen King-Hall had no communication or conversation with the Foreign Office before writing these letters?

Mr. Butler

I would refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer which I gave on Friday to the right hon. Gentleman for Pollok (Sir J. Gilmour) from which he will see that we repeated the categorical denial given in the German broadcast of 14th July that His Majesty's Government are in any way connected with or responsible for these letters.

Mr. Mander

Have the Government any objection to them?

Vice-Admiral Taylor

Is it not a very good thing to send this information to Germany?

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