HC Deb 27 April 1955 vol 540 cc909-10
4. Lieut-Colonel Lipton

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what further investigations are being made into the disappearance of Burgess and Maclean; and what is the result of these investigations.

Mr. H. Macmillan

I cannot add anything to the reply given to the hon. and gallant Member by the Minister of State on 31st January last.

Lieut-Colonel Lipton

Will the Minister say for how much longer this solemn four-year-old farce of investigation will be continued? What, if anything, has been the result of his investigations to date? Will he abandon what looks like a foolish expenditure of time, money and effort?

Mr. Macmillan

I shall consider how to resolve that dilemma.

Mrs. Mann

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the very simple expedient of asking the Russians if they know anything about Burgess and Maclean and telling them that if they would like any more like Burgess and Maclean they have just to ask us and we will send them over? [HON. MEMBERS: "Answer."] I want an answer. Has Russia been asked?