22. Colonel Sir Arthur Evansasked the Secretary of State for War what action he proposes to take in regard to Lieut.-Colonel Cyril Rocke, late Irish Guards, and now in Rome.
§ Sir J. GriggThe military authorities concerned have been informed that Colonel Rocke was known to be a confirmed admirer of Mussolini and was, at one time, a paid propagandist on behalf 592 of Italy They have been instructed to collect all available evidence regarding Colonel Rocke's activities, and to report what action they have taken.
Sir A. EvansMay I ask my right hon. Friend if he has any information as to whether this officer became an Italian citizen by naturalisation?
§ Sir J. GriggNo, Sir, I have none yet.
§ Mr. ShinwellCould my right hon. Friend, at the same time, give us a little more information about other admirers of Mussolini?
§ Mr. Ellis SmithCan we be informed how long this man had been serving in this rank during the war?
§ Sir J. GriggHe has not been serving in this rank during the war. He is retired and his retired pay has been suspended since 31st March, 1940.