§ 37. Commander Viscount CURZONasked the Home Secretary whether a Count Pejácsivich has recently come to this country; whether he is aware that he 587 belonged to the Austro-Hungarian Embassy in London in 1914, and that a year ago he was employed in the Austro-Hungarian Embassy in Berlin expressing strongly anti-Ally sentiments; can he state for what purpose he is now in this country; and when he will be repatriated?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I am aware of the diplomatic appointments which this gentleman has held, but he has now been recognised as of Jugo-Slav nationality and came to this country with a Serbian passport. I do not think his presence here is likely to be detrimental to our interests, but he can be required to leave the country if any occasion should arise.
§ Viscount CURZONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the peace with Austria is not yet signed, and that great indignation exists because this man is allowed to go about London exactly as he did in pre-war times? Is it impossible for the late Austrian Ambassador to come here also?
§ Mr. SHORTTWe must have some regard to the Serbian passport, and in the meantime we can protect ourselves if necessary.
§ Major Earl WINTERTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this gentleman is only one of many formerly connected with the Austro-Hungarian Fmbassy who have come here camouflaged as Jugo-Slavs? Is he aware that the late Ambassador has announced his intention of coming here as soon as possible before peace is signed?
§ Mr. SHORTTI have heard of that.