HC Deb 17 October 1944 vol 403 cc2178-9
13. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for War, what action has now been taken in the case of Lieut.-Colonel C. Rocke, who was arrested in Italy and underwent investigation more than three months ago.

Sir J. Grigg

This case has been submitted to the appropriate authorities who have advised that on the information which is at present available there are no grounds on which legal proceedings can be taken. It is, however, possible that as our Armies advance in Italy further information will be found, and this would be carefully considered.

Mr. Driberg

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the information that was available would have included texts of the broadcasts delivered by Colonel Rocke on behalf of Mussolini's government? Can he also say whether Colonel Rocke is now in London and at large?

Sir J. Grigg

No, Sir. Colonel Rocke is in hospital in Italy. If the hon. Member wants a categorical assurance about his first supplementary, perhaps he will put a Question down but, to the best of my knowledge, every piece of information we could get hold of was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions.