Mr. POINTERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention had been called to the arrest of Senor Ferrer by the Spanish Government for alleged complicity in the recent Barcelona riots; whether he had any information regarding the cruelties perpetrated upon such prisoners 2302 at present in Barcelona gaols; and whether, in view of the international reputation of Senor Ferrer as an educationist, he is prepared to make representations to the Spanish Government with a view to securing his proper treatment while under arrest?
§ Sir EDWARD GREYI cannot undertake to answer questions or make statements about internal affairs of European countries unless they are based on special Treaty rights.
Mr. POINTERMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, having regard to the facts stated in the question, and also having regard to the fact that humane considerations are at any rate calling forth protests from all civilised countries, there is not sufficient justification for making such representations to be found in the fact that close relationship exists between the occupants of the throne of this country and that of Spain?
§ Sir EDWARD GREYIf, in the case of everyone who puts a question on the Paper, I undertake to give an answer upon matters of this kind, we should not be on speaking terms with any other country.