§ 52. Mr. Pagetasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many Soviet citizens enjoy diplomatic immunity in Great Britain today; and where they are based.
§ Mrs. WhiteOne hundred and twenty-five Soviet officials at the moment enjoy diplomatic immunity in this country. Immunity is also extended to their wives and children. They are all based in London.
§ Mr. PagetIs it not true that a great many of these people who have diplomatic immunity are engaged in occupations which come a great deal nearer to spying than anything indulged in by Mr. Brooke, and cannot some reduction in these numbers be made?
§ Mrs. WhiteI think that my hon. and learned Friend is fully aware that these are reciprocal arrangements. [Interruption.] We ourselves benefit. While I trust that we do not in any way misuse these immunities, we do benefit by having reciprocal arrangements in Moscow.