Abstract
The problems being addressed in this paper surround the internment of German civilians in England during the Great War. It addresses how and why this policy transpired, its origins, and who was the driving force behind its implementation. The government or the public? In examining this issue debates from the British Parliament are analyzed along with proposed legislation concerning aliens. To look at the public’s role letters written to The Times, petitions, and demonstrations are broken down. What was found is that government and the public had a common interest in implementing internment. Contrary to many interpretations locking up foreigners seemed to be a joint operation with the public and the government sharing that agenda. In conclusion the British government had a larger role in bringing about and sustaining the practice of internment than has been previously acknowledged by scholars.