22. Mr. Vaneasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what further information he has received from the United Nations organisation regarding the return of 28,000 Greek children abducted by the Communists during the civil war.
§ The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Herbert Morrison)I have received no recent report from the United Nations. The return of the children from Yugoslavia is proceeding and a Swedish Red Cross Commission is working with the Yugoslav Red Cross. There is still no favourable news from countries within the Soviet orbit.
Mr. VaneCan the right hon. Gentleman not be more specific when he says "proceeding"? Is it a serious return flow or just a trickle? Has his attention been directed to the recent words of the Queen of Greece who, when opening a conference in Athens, said that it would soon be too late and that for three years these children had been systematically murdered in body and soul?
§ Mr. MorrisonYes, Sir, I have seen that. The flow is not great, but I am convinced that the Yugoslav Government are doing their best. Naturally, after this period of time, there are difficulties, but the hon. Member may be assured that we will continue to do all we can.
§ Brigadier RaynerCannot the Foreign Office make another and stronger representation, if only to remind British public opinion of this scandalous business?
§ Mr. MorrisonI will consider that.