HC Deb 29 April 1931 vol 251 cc1610-1
7. Mr. BOOTHBY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the arrest at Taormina, on 12th March last, and subsequent imprisonment without trial, of Mr. Hugh Cholmondeley, M.C., late honorary attaché in His Majesty's Diplomatic Service; and whether he is taking any steps to secure his liberty?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

Yes, Sir. The attention of the Italian Government was drawn urgently to this case by His Majesty's Ambassador in Rome on the 16th of March, and again on the 21st of March, and representations were also made to the local Italian authorities by His Majesty's Consul. I am glad to say that Mr. Cholmondeley was released on bail on the 26th of March. Every effort is being made to expedite the hearing of this case in the Italian courts.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Will the right hon. Gentleman make some inquiries into the circumstances under which Mr. Cholmondeley was arrested, in order to satisfy himself as to whether it may or may not be necessary to make representations to the Italian Government on a matter of principle?

Mr. HENDERSON

The information at my disposal does not lead me to think I can make any representations, and, of course, as the case is sub judice the less I interfere the better.

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