§ 4. Sir E. CORNWALLasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give any information as to the whereabouts and treatment of the British subjects who were recently captured at Shiraz; and what steps are being taken to secure their liberation?
§ Lord R. CECILSo far as His Majesty's Government are aware these British subjects are at present detained in the neighbourhood of Borasjun, where they are being well treated. It has been decided, after due consideration, that the question as to how their release can be secured should be left to the Persian Government. His Majesty's Government will, however, carefully watch any fresh developments in the situation.
§ Colonel YATECan the Noble Lord give any information with regard to the safety of British residents at Kerman and Yezd?
§ Lord R. CECILI am sure that I could have done so if I had had notice of the question, but I should not like to answer from recollection, for fear of misleading somebody.
§ Colonel YATEI will put the question down. May I ask if the release of these prisoners is to be left solely to the Per- 176 sian Government? Will the British Government take no action whatsoever in the matter?
§ Lord R. CECILI am sure that my hon. and gallant Friend will believe that we are doing whatever we think to be best in order to secure the release of British prisoners, and it has been thought best by our advisers to leave the negotiation or discussion of it to the Persian Government, subject of course to our watching closely what goes on.