§ Sir CHARLES SCHWANNasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, if his attention has been called to a proposal of the Italian Government to carry out without indemnity the expropriations 849 from Italy of foreign insurance companies, many of which have been established in that country for long periods and have large capitals involved; if he is aware that British insurance companies will also be affected; and, in view of the fact that such action as is proposed is contrary to international law, as defined by the most eminent authorities, whether His Majesty's Government propose to take any action, joint or otherwise, in the matter?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe Bill for the establishment of a national institute of life assurance in Italy has been engaging the attention of His Majesty's Government for some time past. His Majesty's Ambassador at Rome has on several occasions made representations to the Italian Government in regard to the interests of British insurance companies, and similar representations have also been made by other Powers whose interests are involved. The Bill has already passed the Chamber of Deputies, and is now, I understand, before the Senate.