HC Deb 10 July 1918 vol 108 cc329-30W
General CROFT

asked the Home Secretary whether interned enemies at Hackney who are working in various factories are allowed to go free one Saturday a month?

Sir G. CAVE

The interned enemies referred to do not work in various factories, but are employed on skilled work in the internment camp. There is a system under which leave can be earned by good conduct and industry, and a man may be allowed out for a few hours once in every two and a half to three months. If the hon. and gallant Member knows of a case in which leave has been granted at shorter intervals, it must have been due to exceptional circumstances.

General CROFT

asked the Home Secretary whether a British citizen may ascertain from the police if a man or woman suspected to be an enemy alien or a naturalised alien is such; and, if not, whether he will consider the advisability of such information being supplied in defence of the realm?

Sir G. CAVE

The police are authorised to inform inquirers who show good reason for their inquiry whether or not a particular individual is registered as an alien or an alien enemy. As regards aliens who have been naturalised as British subjects, their names can be obtained from the published lists of naturalised British subjects.