§ 5. Commander SOUTHBYasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will instruct His Majesty's representative at the Vatican to endeavour to obtain from the Vatican authorities any information they may have in their possession regarding any religious persecution which may now exist in Russia?
§ Mr. THURTLEBefore this question is answered, Mr. Speaker, may I submit to you that it is not in accordance with the Rules of the House? It is most improper and offensive to ask that an official request should be made to a third party to find out information regarding what is happening in the territory of that country with which we are in proper diplomatic relations. May I submit that this question is not only offensive to the Soviet Government, but also to our British Ambassador in Moscow?
§ Mr. SPEAKERIf I had thought that this question was out of Order, I should not have allowed it.
Mr. A. HENDERSONNo, Sir. I do not consider that it is my duty to undertake inquiries of the nature suggested.
§ Commander SOUTHBYIs it not essential that reliable information should be obtained about what is going on in Russia in regard to religious persecution, and will the right hon. Gentleman take this step to find out the true facts?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTEIs the right hon. Gentleman afraid of knowing the true facts?
§ Mr. HAYCOCKWill the Foreign Secretary get some reliable information from 2140 our representative at the Vatican concerning political persecution in Italy?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat does not arise on this question.