§ 49. Mr. Shinwellasked the Prime Minister whether he can now give an assurance that in the event of the Italian people forming a Government consisting of Socialists and other elements of left opinion and expressing their desire to negotiate terms of peace, the Allies will accord them recognition?
§ The Prime MinisterHis Majesty's Government will be prepared, in consultation with their principal Allies, to deal with all situations as they arise.
§ Mr. ShinwellWill not my right hon. Friend be a little more explicit in reply to the Question? On the assumption that such a Government is formed in Italy, would it not receive the encouragement of my right hon. Friend? At the same time, has he observed in the Press a report that demonstrators in Milan and elsewhere in Italy have executed several prominent Fascists, including some millionaires, and will he encourage that process?
§ The Prime MinisterI have nothing to add to what I have said, which I think is explicit and, I think, has the additional merit of being comprehensive.
§ Sir H. WilliamsIs it not the case that former secret societies in Italy which were 2083 suppressed by Mussolini were rather left wing in character? Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake not to recognise the Mafia?