HC Deb 29 July 1946 vol 426 cc505-6
26. Mr. Warbey

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Greek Government have agreed to make any changes in the new Extraordinary Measures for Public Order Act as a result of the advice given by the British Ambassador.

Mr. Noel-Baker

The law concerning Extraordinary Measures for Public Order was proposed by the Greek Government to their Parliament, and was adopted by that Parliament after certain amendments had been made to meet the objections of the Opposition. The Greek Government and Parliament are, therefore, solely responsible for the Law, and I have no statement to make.

Mr. Warbey

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs informed me a week or two ago that we were giving certain advice to the Greek Government in respect of this law, and can he say what advice has been given and what response has been received?

Mr. Noel-Baker

My right hon. Friend is not here, so I cannot consult him about this. I do not think I want to add to what I have said already.

Mr. Sydney Silverman

May I ask my right hon. Friend whether it is more important or less important in Greece or in Poland that elections should be free and unfettered?

Mr. Noel-Baker

We have debated this matter and I think it is agreed that the report of the Allied Commission shows that the elections in Greece, broadly speaking, were free and represented the will of those who voted.