HC Deb 30 March 1944 vol 398 cc1534-5
15. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has considered the request he has recently received regarding the trial or release of British subjects interned under Regulation 18B; and what answer he has returned to this request.

Mr. H. Morrison

If this Question refers to a petition sent by a lady who was formerly a member of the British Union and is now Secretary of an organisation described as "The Petition of Right Council," I can only say that on the question raised by this petition I am answerable to Parliament and I could find nothing in the petition to which an answer has not already been given in this House.

Sir T. Moore

I dislike labouring this question, but can my right hon. Friend say whether it is the policy of the Government to carry on this restraint of British subjects for the duration of the war?

Mr. Morrison

I have answered this question of trial about ten times in this House, I think to the satisfaction of the House. I am really surprised that my hon. and gallant Friend should raise it again.

Mr. Petherick

In view of the changed circumstances and the altered military situation since the detention of the hon. and gallant Member for Peebles and Southern (Captain Ramsay), who is still incarcerated, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman now considers it possible to bring him before a Select Committee of this House?

Mr. Morrison

That matter has also been discussed. The position of the hon. and gallant Member is considered from time to time, and will be so considered in the future. I am not convinced at this juncture that he ought to be released.