HC Deb 27 July 1953 vol 518 cc863-4
18. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that Mr. Cedric Belfrage, a British subject long resident in the United States of America, though released from Ellis Island on bail, is still subjected to various disabilities, including limitations on his freedom of movement out of New York and the obligation to report at Ellis Island every fortnight; and if he will now make representations to the United States Government on behalf of this man, who has committed no crime and is being victimised for his political opinions.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

As I stated on 24th June, proceedings in this case are being conducted in accordance with United States law and judicial processes.

I am advised that the disabilities to which the hon. Member refers are not unusual under the circumstances and that it is open to Mr. Belfrage's legal representatives to make application for their relaxation. I do not, therefore, consider that it is a case in which Her Majesty's Government should make official representations.

Mr. Driberg

Has the right hon. and learned Gentleman any information about how long this procedure will continue? Is he, or the Consulate, providing any legal advice or assistance?

Mr. Lloyd

I do not know how long these proceedings will take, but it is true that Mr. Belfrage has the advantage of being represented by a lawyer, with whom certain contacts have been made. There has been no request for legal assistance from Her Majesty's representative.

Miss Lee

Would it not be more in keeping with the dignity of British citizens if Her Majesty's Government tried to get reciprocity so that there would be similar arrangements on both sides of the ocean? Are not the Government aware that before British citizens go to America they are subjected to the indignity of having their fingerprints taken and all kinds of other measures? We do not do that with Americans who come into this country and I think that we are putting up with a little too much.

Mr. Lloyd

This Question deals with a British subject who has been resident a long time in America.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it not true that other countries can do what they please with British subjects now since the Tory Government came to power?

Mr. Lloyd

I believe that each country is rather proud of having its own judicial processes not tampered with overseas. I think that that is the position of the United States in these proceedings. I am sure that we should resent it very much if we were interfered with when we were dealing with anyone in our courts.

Mr. Driberg

Does the Minister consider that there is anything to be proud of in a judicial process which victimises a man for his political opinions?

Mr. Lloyd

We would be much wiser not to comment on the judicial processes involved in another country.