§ 84. Mr. Boyd-Carpenterasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has yet requested information from the Russian Government as to their reasons for facilitating the flight from justice of a Polish subject named Stefanowicz; and what action he is taking to secure this gentleman's return to the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. YoungerThe Soviet authorities were invited on 21st July to explain the circumstances in which Stefanowicz, a warrant for whose arrest in connection with the murder of William Thomas Dear-love has been issued in this country, was removed by a Soviet tug from the Soviet vessel in which he was travelling shortly before it was due to arrive in Stockholm. As the Soviet authorities were aware, application for his return to this country under our Extradition Treaty with Sweden had been made to the Swedish Government. No reply has so far been received from the Soviet Government. As regards the second part of the Question, an Extradition Treaty was concluded with the former Russian Imperial Government in 1886, but it has for many years been tacitly regarded as inoperative. We will consider what further action is appropriate when we receive the reply we are awaiting from the Soviet Government.
§ Mr. PickthornCan the Minister say what he will do if he does not receive a reply from the Soviet Government?
§ Mr. YoungerThat is a hypothetical question. We are still hoping to receive a reply.