HC Deb 27 May 1935 vol 302 cc744-5
6. Sir ASSHETON POWNALL

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the arrest in Spain of a British student, Mr. A. G. Ling, who was twice imprisoned for periods of three-and-a-half days for alleged espionage; and whether he will make representations to the Spanish Government with regard to the confiscation by them of Mr. Ling's thesis on architecture?

Sir J. SIMON

Yes, Sir. His Majesty's Ambassador at Madrid requested the Spanish Government on the 18th May to furnish an explanation of Mr. Ling's detention. Steps are being taken to recover any of Mr. Ling's property remaining in their hands.

Sir A. POWNALL

Has my right hon. Friend any information when these are likely to be recovered, because the thesis has to be submitted on Monday next for Mr. Ling's examination in architecture?

Sir J. SIMON

I did not know the fact added by my hon. Friend. I hope it will be done speedily, but I am not sure when it will be.

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