HC Deb 04 October 1944 vol 403 cc908-9
11. Mr. Alexander Walkden

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has now received an assurance from the Spanish Government that it will[...] forbid asylum to any Fascist or Nazi war criminals whom the Allies desire to bring to judgment.

Mr. Eden

His Majesty's Ambassador at Madrid has received assurances that it is not the intention of the Spanish Government to provide asyum for war criminals in Spain. Similar assurances have also, I understand, been given to the American Ambassador.

Mr. Walkden

Can the Foreign Secretary say whether he has had similar assurances in this respect from Portugal?

Mr. Eden

Perhaps my hon. Friend would be good enough to put that Question down; I am not sure exactly what is the present position.

Captain Cunninǵham-Reid

What is the use of any such assurances, if these war criminals arrive in Spain under assumed names?

Mr. Eden

I should think human ingenuity might almost deal with that.

Mr. Gallacher

Would the Minister not give an assurance to the Spanish people that we will not tolerate Fascism in Spain?