asked 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.

A 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.

In 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?

I 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.

I 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.

Is 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.

I 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.

Is 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?

Will not my right hon. Friend see that in future English doctors are in charge of these unfortunate people?

No, Sir, certainly not. German medical officers are specially retained under the Hague Convention for this purpose.