§ 50. Sir A. V. Harveyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made in bringing about a settlement for compensation for the burning and looting of the British Embassy in Bagdad.
§ The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Selwyn Lloyd)A Note setting out Her Majesty's Government's claim for compensation was presented to the Iraq Government on 25th September. The Iraq Government are considering the question and their reply is awaited.
§ Sir A. V. HarveyWill my right hon. and learned Friend inform the House of the total sum involved in the claim, and will he assure the House that he will not relax in bringing pressure to bear to get this matter settled, not only of the Embassy but of individuals also involved?
§ Mr. LloydThe claim includes compensation for the loss of personal effects of individuals and also the compensation due owing to the death of Colonel Graham. I am not prepared to reveal the amount of the claim while it is under consideration, but I can tell my hon. Friend that the Iraq Government orally accepted responsibility in principle for compensation on 20th August.