§ Mr. WILLIAM THORNEasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that at a public meeting held in Trafalgar Square on Sunday afternoon last, 16th July, a resolution was passed urging an immediate investigation by the British Government of the charges brought against Miss Malecka and urging that she should have a public and impartial trial or her release be immediately demanded; and if he can state what action the Government intend taking in the matter?
Mr. McKINNON WOODThe reply to the first question is in the affirmative. As regards the second question, His Majesty's Ambassador at St. Petersburg has been instructed to address a note to the Russian Government claiming Miss Malecka as a British subject on the ground of a legal opinion as to her nationality, which has now been received. Sir George Buchanan is to ask once more that particulars of the charge against her may be given, that she may quickly be brought to trial and allowed counsel to defend her, and that His Majesty's Consul may be allowed to visit her freely and to attend the trial when it takes place.
§ Mr. CLYNESCan the right hon. Gentleman indicate how soon we may have more complete and definite information as the result of these steps?
§ Mr. MORRELLIs not it a fact that the British Ambassador asked for these particulars last week, and, as I understand from my right hon. Friend, no answer to that request has yet been received?