§ 4. Sir S. HOAREasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received a communication from Constantinople stating that the Turks intend to blow up the Church of St. Sofia if any public expression of opinion takes place in the United Kingdom in favour of the restitution of one of the oldest Christian churches in Europe to Christendom; whether, if any such communication has been received, the Allies intend to submit to the throat rather than to safeguard the church by the forces at their disposal in Constantinople; and whether the British Government will, without delay, notify the Turkish Government that the Turkish Government will be held directly responsible for any damage that is done to the fabric?
Mr. HARMSWORTHThe Secretary of State received no official communication in the sense mentioned in the first part of the question, but information to that effect was conveyed to those who are interested in the matter in this country. His Majesty's High Commissioner received instructions more than two months ago to take all possible measures for the protection of the building. In the opinion of the Secretary of State, which has been conveyed to my hon. and gallant Friend, the Member for Chelsea, this is one of those questions in which publicity is more likely to provoke trouble than to avoid it.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODHave steps teen taken to protect the interests of the very large number of Mahomedans in the British Empire in connection with this building?
§ Major E. WOODIs the hon. Gentleman aware that a strong feeling on this subject exists in this country, as shown by the widely signed memorial which appeared in yesterday's Press?
Mr. HARMSWORTHI am aware of that fact, but in the opinion of His Majesty's Government it is advisable not to say too much about this question.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERHave any steps been actually taken to protect the church of St. Sofia?
Mr. HARMSWORTHYes. Admiral Calthorp is taking all measures which it is possible for him to take with the troops at his disposal.