HC Deb 17 October 1944 vol 403 c2176
9. Major Sir Edward Cadogan

asked the Secretary of State for War to what extent the American and British authorities have control over the administration of civil justice in Rome; and whether he will make representations to avoid a recurrence of a recent incident in the law courts, when one of the parties to a trial was seized by a mob and thrown into the Tiber.

Sir J. Grigg

I am sorry this is a very short reply. I have nothing to add to what the Prime Minister said on this matter on 28th September.

Sir E. Cadogan

Has my right hon. Friend discovered who is responsible for the administration of justice in Rome?

Sir J. Grigg

Rome is in one of the districts or provinces handed back to the Italian Government, so that the primary responsibility is that of the Italian Government. The civil affairs personnel there are advising and controlling the Italian Government in relation to the armistice; they are not the executants of law and order in these areas.

Sir E. Cadogan

Is there to be any revision of those arrangements, in view of what has happened?

Sir J. Grigg

I would rather like to have notice of that question. I should think the answer is, "No,"