HC Deb 24 July 1972 vol 841 cc1300-1
15. Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Common wealth Affairs whether, in view of the representations made by the Foreign Secretary of the Royal Society concerning the plight of Academician Benjamin Levich, of Moscow, he will now make recommendations on his behalf to the Russian Government.

The Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Joseph Godber)

As Ministers have made clear on many occasions, we have no locus standi to intervene with the Soviet Government in such cases, however distressing they may be.

Mr. Janner

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Academician Benjamin Levich has now been appointed to a fellowship at University College, Oxford, and that he has been refused permission by the Soviet authorities to come to this country? In the circumstances, does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that he would have a locus standi, and if I am able to provide him with particulars of the appointment and of the refusal will he undertake to examine the position with a view to making representations on behalf of this brave and distinguished man?

Mr. Godber

On the first point, no; I was not aware of that factor until the hon. and learned Member mentioned it. Certainly I would be glad to look into it, if he would like to send me details, to consider whether anything can be done.