63. Sir F. HALLasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the Soviet Code permits the putting to death of people in Russia without trial on the order of the police; if he can state how many British subjects have been dealt with under this Code; and whether he will take steps to warn persons desiring passports to enable them to proceed to Russia of the judicial system that is in vogue there, as now officially described?
Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONThe Soviet Criminal Code lays down that punishment is to be determined by the judicial bodies in accordance with their socialistic conception of law, but it is notorious that persons are put to death without what would be termed trial in this country. I am not aware of more than one British subject, Mr. Davison, who has suffered the death penalty and, according to the Soviet Government, he had a trial. As regards the last part of the question, the risks are so well ventilated in the Press that I do not think any special warning is required.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWhen was Mr. Davison executed, and what was his alleged offence?
Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONThe whole matter concerning Mr. Davison was dealt 216 with in a White Paper, where the hon. and gallant Member will be able to find the information he wants.