HC Deb 18 May 1927 vol 206 cc1163-4
3. Colonel DAY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received a report from the British Consul in Venezuela with reference to the imprisonment of Captain R. Brining, the master of the Leyland liner "Ninian," which collided with a small rowing-boat while leaving the harbour at Porto Cabello; whether representations have been made by the British Government to the Government of Venezuela to expedite this British officer's trial; will he state what steps are being taken to effect this officer's release pending the trial; and will he make a full statement to the House?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply given on the 11th instant to the hon. Member for Finchley, to which I have nothing to add at present.

Colonel DAY

Have any steps been taken to approach the Minister of the Interior to facilitate this trial?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Yes, our Minister at Caracas is doing his best to expedite the trial and also to try to get this gentleman transferred from the prison to the private house of the Vice-Consul.

Colonel DAY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that it may take anything from six months to five years before the trial can take place, and will he use some special endeavour to get a speedy trial?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I have already said he is doing his utmost to get the trial expedited.

Sir BERTRAM FALLE

Is the harbour under the jurisdiction of the Venezuelan Government or under the company?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I must have notice of that question.