HC Deb 26 April 1944 vol 399 cc742-3
50. Mr. Parker

asked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement on the crisis which has arisen among the Greek armed forces in the Middle East; and whether, in expectation of a political settlement which now seems possible by the formation of the Venezelos Government, he will assist the restoration of normal conditions in the Greek armed forces by securing an amnesty to those who were involved.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Churchill)

am able to inform the House that the disorders which recently broke out in the Greek Army and Navy have now been almost completely cleared up. It is for the Greek Government to decide what measures shall be taken against those who were responsible for these deplorable incidents in their Forces. It must be remembered that a British officer was killed.

In the hope of putting an end to political disunity the King of Greece has already declared his intention of forming a Government as representative as possible, made up of all trends of patriotic opinion to the exclusion only of those who have collaborated with the enemy against their fellow countrymen in the common cause. His Majesty's Government are in full agreement with this policy and will give the King of Greece and his Government all possible support in its execution.

Mr. Parker

Will the Prime Minister do everything possible to see that the interests in Greece that are now fighting against the enemy are fully represented in that Government, and give an assurance to the Greek people that we shall not attempt to force King George upon them against their wish?

The Prime Minister

We shall certainly try to get representatives in that Government of those who are really fighting the enemy; some of them seem to be more busy fighting their own countrymen. With regard to the future of Greece, it has been repeatedly stated that we shall not interfere with the decision of the Greek people, once normal conditions have been more or less restored.