HC Deb 22 December 1937 vol 330 cc1947-9
9. Sir Adrian Baillie

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make any statement as to the continued detention by General Franco of Mr. Peter Caddy, a British journalist; whether representations have been made to secure his release; and what is the present position in this matter?

Mr. Eden

As I indicated in reply to a question by my hon. Friend the Member for Kings Norton (Mr. Cartland) on 6th December, His Majesty's Ambassador at Hendaye has protested to the Salamanca authorities against the prolonged delay in bringing Mr. Caddy to trial, and has represented to them that the trial should take place forthwith and that adequate facilities should be afforded for the prisoner's defence. As it appears that Mr. Caddy has still not been brought to trial, His Majesty's Ambassador has been instructed to make clear to the Salamanca authorities that His Majesty's Government take a serious view of this case, emphasising the request that the trial should take place forthwith, and that adequate facilities should be afforded for the prisoner's defence.

15. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will give an assurance that the policy of the Government in requiring a passport declaration from British subjects proceeding to Spain does not preclude Members of this House from freely expressing their views when in Spain as to the conflict and the plan of non-intervention?

Mr. Eden

The question of whether expressions of opinion with regard to the conflict in Spain by British subjects visiting that country constitute a violation of the undertakng signed by them before leaving this country would seem to depend entirely on the nature of the expression of opinion.

Mr. Mander

Is it possible to obtain unanimity among Ministers on this point, in view of the different attitude taken up by the Prime Minister and the First Lord of the Admiralty?

Mr. Eden

I feel sure that my answer will achieve unanimity.

Mr. Mander

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell me whether this declaration was signed by Sir Robert Hodgson before he went to Spain?

Mr. Eden

No, Sir.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider withdrawing this declaration?

Mr. De la Bère

Why does not the hon. Member have a look at the new clock?