§ 39. Mr. Mott-Radclyffeasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what damage has been caused to British property or suffered by British persons during the recent riots in Trieste and Rome.
§ Mr. NuttingI am glad to say that there were no injuries to British persons either in Trieste or Rome during the recent incidents. As regards damage to property, in Rome windows were broken at the Consular Section of Her Majesty's Embassy, and at the offices of British European Airways and of the British Council. The total amount of the damage is estimated at £100. At Trieste windows were broken in three hotels, one service club and one forces cinema, all under military requisition. Fourteen military vehicles were damaged, one of which is a complete wreck. The total damage is estimated at £536.
§ Mr. Mott-RadclyffeCan my hon. Friend say whether any claim for damages has been lodged by Her Majesty's Ambassador against the Italian Government?
§ Mr. NuttingWith regard to damage in Rome, we have reserved the right to claim compensation for damage to British property, which, as I said, amounts to about £100. Since Trieste is under Allied Military Government, the question cannot arise there.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIs it not the case that the riots were organised by neo-Facist agents, and was not the major damage that done to Italian interests and reputation?
§ Mr. NuttingMy right hon. Friend dealt with that matter in his statement on 9th November. I have nothing to add to what he said.