HC Deb 21 February 1940 vol 357 cc1316-7
4. Colonel Wedgwood asked

the Prime Minister the terms of the undertaking given when the Papal delegate was admitted to this country that he would in no way interfere in politics, and the date?

Mr. Butler

As I have previously informed the right hon. and gallant Gentleman, an Apostolic delegate is an ecclesiastical official appointed to carry out certain ecclesiastical duties; he enjoys no diplomatic status or privileges. Consequently there has never been any question of asking for an assurance of the nature indicated.

Colonel Wedgwood

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, in view of the rumours that special inquiries are to be made by the Apostolic delegate in connection with Mr. Sumner Welles's visit to Europe, that undertaking is being properly carried out?

Mr. Butler

I am perfectly satisfied that the Apostolic delegate will behave in a wholly proper manner.