HC Deb 05 December 1949 vol 470 cc1524-5
45. Mr. Thomas Reid

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps he has taken with regard to the seizure by the Russian authorities of mails entering the British sector of Berlin.

Mr. Mayhew

On the night of 16th-17th November, Soviet officers on the interzonal border impounded and removed a wagon containing parcels on the regular German post train from the British zone to Berlin. The British Commandant in Berlin addressed a letter of protest to the Soviet authorities and demanded the immediate release of the mail wagon. The wagon was returned on 23rd November.

Mr. Reid

Were the mails returned?

Mr. Mayhew

Yes, Sir, the mails were returned.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Had the mails been opened or examined at all?

Mr. Mayhew

Certain of them had been examined.

Squadron-Leader Fleming

Was any apology made by the Russian authorities to the British authorities in Berlin? If not, what is the hon. Gentleman going to do about it?

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