§ 19. Professor Savoryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has given diplomatic support to the protest of the United States Government against the interference of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics with Austrian police officials, in view of the fact that this interference is a violation of the Four-Power Occupation Agreement.
§ The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Ernest Bevin)Yes, Sir. On 10th November, His Majesty's Government, in co-operation with the French and United States Governments, addressed a Note to the Soviet Government protesting against Soviet intervention to prevent the police from maintaining order during the recent Communist-inspired disturbances in Austria.
§ Professor SavoryDoes not the Occupation Agreement specifically place the responsibility on the Austrian Government for the maintenance of order?
§ Captain DuncanHas there been any answer to the protest?
§ 20. Professor Savoryasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has given support to the demand of the Austrian Government that the five Austrian Communist police chiefs supported by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics in Vienna, be dismissed; and what further action he has taken to uphold the authority of the Austrian Government.
§ Mr. BevinYes, Sir. The United Kingdom representative in the Allied Council at Vienna has, in co-operation with his French and United States colleagues, strongly supported the Austrian protest. His Majesty's Government has concerted action with the French and United States Governments and details will be published in the near future.
§ Professor SavoryDid the Soviet authorities actually force the Austrians to hand over one of their public buildings to the Communists, as the Americans state in their protest?
§ Mr. BevinIf that were stated in their protest it would be a correct statement, but I have not the actual facts with me at the moment.