HC Deb 19 February 1952 vol 496 cc13-4
15. Mr. Harold Davies

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will give the findings of the British court of inquiry into the shooting of Sister Anthony of the Convent of St. Vincent de Paul, Ismailia.

Mr. Head

The reports of courts of inquiry are, by their nature, confidential and privileged documents, and it is not the practice to disclose them. After studying the proceedings of the court of inquiry on this most regrettable incident, however, I am in full agreement with the opinions of Lieut.-General Erskine and the Commander-in-Chief, Middle East Land Forces, that no responsibility in the matter can be attributed to the British Military Authorities.

Mr. Davies

Does not the Minister think that it would at least relieve the tension in that quarter of the world if the truth were told about this? Secondly, in view of the Egyptian communiqué of 22nd January that this nun was shot by British bullets, can the House at least be informed whether that allegation is true?

Mr. Head

With regard to the latter part of that Question, General Erskine issued a statement on 21st January in which Sister Anthony's death was attributed to terrorists. I am convinced that the findings of the court support General Erskine's statement, but, as I have said, to produce concrete proof of this matter would be a question of publishing the contents of a court of inquiry —[HON. MEMBERS: "Why not?"]— which is against all past precedent and procedure.

Hon. Members

No.

Mr. Davies

Whilst thanking the Minister for that answer, I should like him to tell us whether or not British bullets were found in the body of the nun. That would help, and even if it were an accident—we understand from Middle East reports that she was running to greet the tanks because she had telephoned for them, and it might have been a pure accident—the truth is the best. Were they British bullets?

Mr. Head

I can assure the hon. Member that both of the points or allegations he has raised are untrue. There is no doubt whatever in my mind that the British troops in this case were not responsible.