HC Deb 21 January 1941 vol 368 cc13-4
37. Mr. Wedgwood

asked the Secretary of State for War what complaints he has received as to the conduct of the troops conducting interned Jews out to Australia on the "Dunera"; and what action he proposes to take?

111. Mr. Edmund Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will make a statement as to the conditions under which a large number of interned aliens were shipped to Australia on the steamship "Dunera"; what was the number of passengers for which the ship had proper accommodation and what was the number actually sent; whether any previous inquiry was made as to the adequacy of the sanitary arrangements for this large number; and whether any inquiry has been instituted into the allegations that the internees' luggage was ripped open by bayonets on their coming on board and that they were deprived of their money, watches, valuables and much of their clothing; and whether he will inquire into the circumstances attending the suicide of one of these internees during the voyage?

Captain Margesson

I will answer No. 37 together with No. 111, to which I have been asked to reply. I am aware of the complaints referred to, and when the first party of the officers and men concerned return to this country, which I am informed will probably be in the course of the next three weeks, an inquiry will be held immediately. The number of internees and guards on board the "Dunera" was 2,873. I am advised by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Shipping that the accommodation, including the sanitary arrangements, was adequate for this number.

Mr. Wedgwood

Has the right hon. and gallant Gentleman seen the report made by the Society of Friends in Australia, and will he see that evidence is taken from the Jewish internees who were on board?

Captain Margesson

I have seen that report, and the court of inquiry which will be set up will go fully into this matter and take evidence from wherever necessary in order to arrive at a conclusion.

Mr. Wedgwood

Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that the evidence at present is in Australia, and will he take steps to see that an opportunity is given for the Jews who are there to give evidence?

Captain Margesson

I appreciate the difficulties, and I realised that point when I read the report. I think that the right hon. Gentleman will agree that the first thing, before we make a decision, is to set up the court of inquiry and that it is for the court to get the evidence in the best way they can.