§ 4. Mr. Ivor Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, whether he has studied the unanimous demand of the recent Congress of Democratic Parties at Bari for the abdication of King Victor Emmanuel III; and whether he will represent to the King of Italy the desirability, in the interests of his country, of abdicating in favour of his grandson, pending an ultimate decision by the Italian people between the republican and monarchial form of government.
§ Mr. EdenThe answer to the first part of the Question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part of the Question, the hon. Member's suggestion is not one which I am prepared to consider while the battle for Rome is still raging in Italy.
§ Mr. ThomasIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the continued refusal of the King to abdicate is hindering the mobilisation of Italian forces on the British side?
§ Mr. Quintin HoggWould it not be a good thing if some of our co-belligerents did a little more fighting and a little less talking?
§ Mr. EmmottDoes my right hon. Friend realise that his answer will give great satisfaction to all those, whether in England or in Italy, who understand what true democracy is?
§ Mr. ThomasAs my supplementary question may have been forgotten owing to the impetuosity of the hon. Member for Oxford (Mr. Hogg) may I repeat it? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the continued refusal of the King to abdicate is hindering the mobilisation of Italian forces on the British side?
§ Mr. A. BevanHow many more British and American lives are to be lost to keep the King of Italy on his throne?