§ 40. Mr. Skeffington-Lodgeasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will make a statement about the death through carelessness, at Malton, of Kurt Bollinghaus who was, in contravention of the medical instructions issued, left under a certain treatment for three hours longer than he should have been; and whether he will have those responsible for this death removed from positions of responsibility in relation to German prisoners of war.
§ Mr. BellengerA military court of inquiry is being held and I cannot anticipate its findings. I should, however, like to take this opportunity of pointing out that camp hospitals are staffed by German medical personnel under the charge of a German medical officer.
§ Mr. George WallaceIn view of the fact that I have received a letter from a constituent who is convinced that we tortured this man to death, will my right hon. Friend assure the House that the details will be made public about this unfortunate accident?
§ Mr. BellengerI regret very much the allegation in the Question. Obviously, I have to await the result of the court of inquiry. My hon. Friend will note that the camp hospitals are staffed by German medical personnel, under the charge of a German medical officer.
§ Mr. WallaceI hope my right hon. Friend will not continue the misunderstanding. I am only conveying information. I am given to understand that I have misrepresented the case. That is not so. I received this information, which has been sent to my right hon. Friend, but unfortunately some people do talk, and a false impression gets abroad.
§ Mr. Quintin HoggIs not a Member of Parliament able, on his own responsibility, to deny a fantastic and ridiculous charge like that? If not, he is not fit to be in the House.
§ Mr. BellengerI appreciate the point of view of my hon. Friend. In view of the statement which he has made, I hope that he will give me the fullest evidence that he has and I will certainly go into it.
§ Mr. Skeffington-LodgeIs there to be any recompense for the poor distracted parents of this man? Will my right hon. Friend bear that aspect of the matter in mind?
§ Mr. Somerville HastingsWill not my right hon. Friend see that in future English doctors are in charge of these unfortunate people?
§ Mr. BellengerNo, Sir, certainly not. German medical officers are specially retained under the Hague Convention for this purpose.