HC Deb 25 July 1949 vol 467 cc1814-5
45. Major Tufton Beamish

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what further inquiries have now been made into the resignation of Mr. C. G. Bidwell, who was head of the British Council in Poland, in view of the fact that Mr. Bidwell's resignation has been a severe blow to the prestige of the British Council in Eastern Europe; and if he will make a further statement.

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Mayhew)

My right hon. Friend feels that there is nothing which can be usefully added to the statement made on 22nd June last.

Major Beamish

Does not the Minister consider that it was a very shaming incident, which has been magnified by the refusal of the Government and the British Council to make a proper explanation?

Mr. Mayhew

I think that a full explanation has been made. I agree that it is a most unfortunate incident.

Mr. H. Strauss

Who was responsible for the appointment of this gentleman?

Mr. Mayhew

He was appointed by the British Council in 1946.