§ 73. Commander BELLAIRSasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the British Ambassador has sought the assistance of the Soviet Government in recovering the silver plate that was taken from the British Embassy when it was attacked; and whether compensation for the properties of the British Embassy are part of the present claims against the Soviet Government?
§ Mr. DALTONThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and I am happy to inform the hon. and gallant Member that the Soviet Government recently delivered to His Majesty's Embassy such portions of the plate as they have been able to trace. As regards the second part of the question, inter-Governmental claims are included in the present negotiations with representatives of the Soviet Government, but no claim in respect of British Embassy property has been presented on behalf of His Majesty's Government.
§ Commander BELLAIRSCan the hon. Gentleman say who were the holders of this stolen property during the last 12 years?
§ Mr. DALTONI cannot say, but I am sure the hon. Member will desire to congratulate the Government on their great diplomatic achievement.