HC Deb 15 June 1920 vol 130 cc1059-60
3. Sir F. HALL

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been called to the report of the disturbances which took place recently at the German Consulate at Tabriz owing to the German officials giving shelter and assistance to a number of Persian Bolsheviks engaged in plotting, under Russian instigation, against the present Persian administration; if the German consul concerned, Herr Wustrow, was formerly at the German legation at Teheran and was expelled for intriguing with the Turks and Russian Bolsheviks against British interests; whether any protest in the matter has been addressed to the German Government; and, if so, with what practical result?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Persian Government had protested to the German Government against the activity of Herr Wustrow at Tabriz and, it is understood, were about to do so again when he was killed at Tabriz on 4th June.

Sir F. HALL

Will the hon. Gentleman reply to the last part of the question as to whether any protest has been addressed to the German Government by the British Government?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I do not think any protest was made.

Sir F. HALL

Does the hon. Gentleman not think it time some protest was made?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The hon. Member will oberve it is a matter which concerns the Persian Government and the Persian Government did make a protest.

Sir F. HALL

When the German Government and ourselves are endeavouring to settle differences are we going to recognise their right to shelter these Bolshevists?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I do not think we need pursue that. This gentleman has been killed or has committed suicide and that seems to put an end to the matter.

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