HC Deb 11 December 1945 vol 417 cc208-9
80. Brigadier Fitzroy Maclean

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has yet reached a decision regarding the Spanish Republicans at present held as prisoners of war in this country.

Mr. Lawson

I hope to make an announcement within the next few days.

Brigadier Maclean

Does the Minister realise the great dissatisfaction that is being caused in wide circles by his failure to make up his mind on this question?

Mr. Lawson

I told the hon. Member that I will be in a position to make a statement on this matter within a few days, and I do not think it will be unsatisfactory, either.

Mrs. Leah Manning

Is the Minister aware that British intelligence officers recently visited the camp and took the names of men who wished to go to France, and told the other men, who did not want to go to France, that they will have to stay in the camp, and remain in this country? Was it on his instructions that this was done? It has caused very great dissatisfaction.

Mr. Lawson

That is rather a different matter. I should like to see that down on the Paper. I must say that this question is extremely complicated and is not as plain—[Hon. Members: "Why? "] There are a good many sides to it and I am hoping the answer I will give later on will give a good deal more satisfaction.