HC Deb 03 November 1948 vol 457 c849
33. Mr. Scott-Elliot

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the policy of His Majesty's Government in relation to the recent request made by the Soviet Government of the immediate transfer to the U.S.S.R. of certain Italian warships, in view of the terms of the Peace Treaty between the Allies and Italy.

Mr. Bevin

I understand that this Question is now the subject of bilateral negotiations between the Italian and Soviet Governments. Should these fail, His Majesty's Government must support any reasonable demand that the Treaty should be carried out.

Sir R. Ross

What steps are His Majesty's Government taking to see that British and American ships due to be returned to this country and to the United States, when the Soviet get the Italian ships, will be so delivered?

Mr. Bevin

I understand there is a Question to the Admiralty on this matter.