HC Deb 04 March 1850 vol 109 c316
MR. HUME

was anxious to know the state of the political relations between this country and Greece. Much anxiety was felt on the subject, and hopes were entertained that there was to be a speedy settlement of the existing differences.

VISCOUNT PALMERSTON

The state of affairs is this; It has been thought necessary at last to make a peremptory demand for certain reparation, for which application has long been made by this country without success; and, that demand having been refused, reprisals have been commenced, which consist in keeping in pledge certain property belonging to the adverse parties as security for the payment of these demands. These reprisals have been carried to a certain extent, and by the last return, dated, I think, on the 10th ult., I think that sufficient reprisals had been made to answer all the demands against the Greek Government. Meantime the good offices of the French Government have been offered and accepted, but the negotiator sent by the French Government had not arrived when the last accounts left. I may also state, that notwithstanding what has occurred, the diplomatic relations between this country and Greece have not been suspended. Mr. Wyse, although he has embarked on board a man of war, has continued up to the last moment in diplomatic relations with the Government of Greece; and, as a proof that no courtesy was omitted on our part, I may mention that the other day, on the anniversary of the birthday of either the King or the Queen, I forget which, our fleet saluted with all the honours on the occasion.