§ 20. Commander BOWERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that Carmelo Psaila and Robert Ghirlando, British subjects, have been imprisoned in Tripoli since 12 December and January last, respectively, it being stated against them that they had uttered remarks insolent to Italy; whether he is aware that the Italian authorities have declared their intention of bringing them before a military tribunal; and whether His Majesty's Government have taken any steps to secure for these men a fair and open trial without delay?
§ Mr. EDENThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. His Majesty's Ambassador at Rome is investigating the facts, and I have asked him to hasten his report with a view to deciding whether action should be taken by His Majesty's Government.
§ Commander BOWERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that British subjects in Tripoli are undergoing something like persecution solely on account of their nationality? Has he considered suggesting to the Italian Government that our nationals should get the same courtesy and consideration that the Italians receive here?
§ Sir A. KNOXCan the right hon. Gentleman say when these two gentlemen became British subjects?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLHow long does the right hon. Gentleman think that we can afford to wait without some information while these men are in prison—not, I trust, for more than a month?