§ 25. Lieut.-Colonel Sir S. HOAREasked the Prime Minister whether he can give the House any information as to the recent massacre by the Turkish Nationalists of the Christian population of Nicæa, and the destruction of the historic church of the Koimesis with its mosaics, tombs, and unique Christian monuments; whether, when the Greek Government was ready to occupy Nicæa in order to protect its Christian population and buildings, it was refused permission by the Allies; and, if so, whether this permission will now be given them?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Cecil Harmsworth)Massacres have occurred during the last two or three months, especially in the district lying between Broussa and Ismid which is upon the fringe of the zone occupied by the Greek army. According to a local report, which His Majesty's Government have no means of verifying, Turkish Nationalists on the 27th August, surrounded the Greek quarter at Nicæa and massacred the inhabitants. It may therefore be true that the Church suffered at the same time. As regards the latter part of the question, the operations agreed upon between the Greek Government and the other Allies were duly carried out I am not aware that the Greek Government proposed to occupy Nicæa.
§ Sir S. HOAREWill the hon. Gentleman inquire of the Minister at Constantinople whether the allegations contained in the question are correct?
§ Mr. HARMSWORTHYes, I will in quire, though I am not at all sure I shall be able to give any additional information.