HC Deb 14 July 1948 vol 453 cc1179-80
21. Major Beamish

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware of the illegal entry of three villas rented by His Majesty's representatives in Roumania; that these villas are now occupied by Communists who are making full use of the bedding, food and other private property therein; what protest has been made in this connection and if he will insist that the villas be vacated, full compensation paid and an apology tendered.

Mr. Mayhew

Yes, Sir. His Majesty's Minister in Bucharest has reported that two villas have been requisitioned, one containing personal properties of members of the staff, although the leases were in the name of His Majesty's Legation at Bucharest and had been notified to the Roumanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs After a series of verbal and written protests, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have now assured His Majesty's Minister that a satisfactory solution including compensation, will be reached.

Major Beamish

May I at any rate ask whether any sort of apology has been tendered for this extraordinary insult to His Majesty's representative in Roumania?

Mr. Mayhew

We have received a satisfactory reply.

Major Beamish

But no apology?

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

Has there been any satisfactory explanation of the reason for the requisitioning?

Major Beamish

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether the Roumanian Government representative in London is being treated with the usual courtesy?

Mr. Mayhew

I think those questions are rather mischievous. I have already said that we have received a satisfactory reply.

Major Beamish

But no apology?