HC Deb 20 March 1940 vol 358 cc1972-3
37. Mr. Sorensen

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether his attention has been drawn to the unfortunate contrast in the character of the funerals at Blyth, Northumberland, of three German airmen and an unknown British sailor; and whether, whilst preserving the traditions of Britain respecting the treatment of enemies killed in warfare, he will take all steps to secure that British seamen who lose their lives at sea shall be accorded dignified and considerate interment?

Mr. Churchill

No German airmen have been buried at Blyth. Two unidentified bodies of unknown nationality which were washed ashore on 14th February and 6th March respectively were buried by the local civil authorities in accordance with the usual practice. The naval authorities always endeavour to provide proper funeral ceremonies for British naval personnel who lose their lives at sea, and I am asking that during the war this practice shall be extended as widely as possible to cover the kind of case the hon. Member has in mind.

Mr. Sorensen

While appreciating the reply of the First Lord, may I ask him whether he is aware that this case has aroused considerable interest and feeling and that the Question was directed to securing the very reply which the right hon. Gentleman has made, which, I am sure, will give great satisfaction?

Mr. Churchill

I am glad that the hon. Member put the Question down. It is certainly one which requires attention.

Mr. R. J. Taylor

While the First Lord's answer will, I am sure, give great satisfaction, in view of the tremendous interest which has been taken in the matter, may I ask him whether his answer will apply to all seamen as well as naval men? Would it be possible to ask the Seamen's Mission to conduct a service somewhat in keeping with the sacrifices which the seamen have to make?

Mr. Churchill

Yes, Sir. I intended my reply to apply not only to the regular personnel of the Navy, but to the large number of British seamen who are risking their lives every day in the North Sea in essential measures for our protection. I cannot guarantee that there will be available at every port and at all times a naval firing party, but we will do the best we can to make it available for all these cases which the hon. Member has in mind. May I express my obligation that the matter has been brought forward in this way?

Mr. Ede

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that no merchant seaman who loses his life shall be buried during the course of this war by the public assistance authority, but shall be given an appropriate burial?

Mr. Churchill

I cannot add to what I have said, but I entirely agree with the hon. Member.

Mr. R. J. Taylor

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the prompt action of the seamen's missioner and the local vicar redeemed it from drabness and bareness?