§ 8. Mr. Joynson-Hicksasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the arrest of people for political reasons, contrary to the peace treaty, has now ceased in Rumania; and how many political prisoners have been released since 1st June.
§ Mr. BevinThe Rumanian Government have not discontinued arrests of political opponents. They have recently arrested Monsieur Maniu and the leading members of the National Peasant Party. Releases of political prisoners are taking place, but I have been unable to obtain any reliable figures. I agree with the hon. Member that such political arrests are in conflict with Article 3 of the Peace Treaty, and His Majesty's Government addressed to the Rumanian Government a Note on 21st July refuting the Rumanian Government's contention that this is not so and that His Majesty's Government will have no right to concern themselves with the fulfilment by Rumania of that Article.
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksWhile appreciating the seriousness of the right hon. Gentleman's reply may I ask him can he assure the House that he is receiving the active co-operation of the other parties concerned with the Moscow Conference, towards ensuring that the Rumanian Government implement their obligations?
§ Mr. BevinI would not like to say that. Certainly, the American Government, as one of the members of the Allied Council, have supported it. That is all.