§ 27. Sir K. WOODasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make a statement as to the present position in Spain?
§ 29. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any British subjects have suffered loss or injury in the attacks on religious houses in Spain?
§ Mr. DALTONLast week there were extensive outbreaks of rioting in various parts of Spain, directed principally against religious institutions. Considerable damage and in some cases the complete destruction of buildings and their contents resulted. The Government have, in consequence, declared martial law in many parts of the country. As a result of the measures taken by the Government, the situation has for the past three days been calmer, and appears to be in hand. Very little loss of life seems to have occurred. The only case in which a British subject is so far reported to have suffered loss is that of the household effects of a British officer, which had been left stored in one of the convents burnt down at Malaga, and were totally lost.
§ Sir K. WOODCan the hon. Gentleman say whether martial law is still in operation?
§ Mr. DALTONI think it is still in operation over certain parts of Spain.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYHas the hon. Member any knowledge as to British nationals in these religious houses in Spain?
§ Mr. DALTONThe only account that we have of any British national having in any way suffered damage or loss is the one that I have cited. It appears to be generally true that the inmates of the religious houses have in nearly all cases been allowed to escape without damage.
§ Mr. SMITHERSIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the troubles there were accentuated by Communist propaganda?