HC Deb 24 January 1940 vol 356 cc553-4
7. Mr. Silverman

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the author of the play "Professor Mamlock," on which was founded the film of that name now achieving success as a medium of anti-Nazi propaganda, is now, and has for many months been, detained in a French internment camp under conditions of great hardship and indignity; and whether, in the common interests of the two countries, he will make representations to the French Government on the subject?

The Prime Minister

I do not accept the hon. Member's description of conditions in a French internment camp. In any case, the question of the internment in France of the author of "Professor Mamlock" is entirely a matter for the French Government.

Mr. Silverman

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this gentleman is known to many Members of this House, on all sides, for his personal integrity? Docs he not realise that this affair raises, in the minds of enemies of this country, very great—

Mr. Speaker

The Prime Minister has said that it has nothing to do with this Government.

Mr. Silverman

On a point of Order. I realise that, but I asked, at the end of my Question, whether the Prime Minister cannot make representations to the French Government in the common interests of the two countries.

Mr. Speaker

The Answer covered all that.

Mr. Silverman

In view of the extremely unsatisfactory and disappointing nature of the Answer. I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Motion for the Adjournment at an early date.