HC Deb 05 February 1918 vol 101 cc2146-7W
Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Home Secretary how many uninterned alien enemies have sons fighting in our Army; and whether he has taken any steps in regard to the internment of all the others in regard to whom there are no national grounds to the contrary

Sir G. CAVE

As regards the first part of the question, I regret that no figures are available; but it is certain that a very considerable number of the uninterned alien enemies have sons fighting for this country or her Allies. As regards the second part of the question, I cannot do more than refer the hon. Member to the full statement which I made in the Debate on the 17th December, when I explained the principles on which I had acted with regard to the internment or repatriation of alien enemies.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has communicated with the Home Office in reference to the cases of naturalised aliens who are unfit to have a licence to trade in non-ferrous metals with a view that steps may be taken for their internment; and, if not, whether he will do so forthwith?

Mr. WARDLE

My right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade is forwarding to the Home Office particulars of certain naturalised British subjects of enemy origin to whom he referred in the Debate on the Non-Ferrous Metal Industry Bill as having conducted their business since the War without proper regard to the interests of this country.