§ 39. Mr. Goodhartasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will make a further statement about the imprisonment by the Soviet authorities of Mr. Brooke.
§ Mr. M. StewartThe case of Mr. Brooke was discussed further with the Soviet Ambassador on 30th May.
§ Mr. GoodhartWhile we all hope that Mr. Brooke will soon be released, does the Foreign Secretary recognise that exchanging Mr. Brooke for professional 999 Soviet spies would put innocent British travellers behind the Iron Curtain at risk in the future? Is there no external pressure we are prepared to apply to the Soviet Union in an attempt to protect Mr. Brooke?
§ Mr. StewartI am aware of the consideration which the hon. Gentleman advances, and all the other considerations one must bear in mind. At present negotiations are proceeding with the Soviet authorities to avert a further trial of Mr. Brooke. No agreement has yet been reached, and it would not be helpful to Mr. Brooke to say anything now.
§ Mr. HastingsWhile echoing the hope that the torture of Gerald Brooke will soon be ended, may I ask whether it is recognised that an exchange for the Krogers would be a demonstration of the omnipotence of the K.G.B. and a boost for the morale and thus the audacity of every Soviet agent working in this country and, indeed, in the Western world? Furthermore, is it recognised that if this exchange takes place, in the event of the future apprehension in this country of Soviet agents, no British tourist, businessman or traveller to the Soviet Union will be safe from provocation, compromise and false arrest as a hostage?
§ Mr. StewartI note what the hon. Gentleman says, but I do not think that I can add to my previous reply.
§ Mr. WinnickIs my right hon. Friend aware that blackmail is always obnoxious whether practised by Governments or by individuals? Is he also aware that we on this side have complete confidence that he will pursue this matter to the best advantage of Mr. Brooke and the country?