HC Deb 11 November 1912 vol 43 cc1757-8W
Sir WILLIAM BULL

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs with reference to a claim against the Turkish Government by M. and H. Klonaridis, Limited, a British company trading in Athens, for direct and indirect damage to their property by Turkish subjects, how long a period elapsed between the presentation of the claim and any offer of satisfaction by the Turkish Government; and whether he will take steps to press the claim with a view to suitable compensation being received?

Sir EDWARD GREY

A claim on behalf of Messrs. Klonarides for direct damage to their property was put forward by His Majesty's Ambassador at Constantinople on the 8th February last. No reply has yet been received from the Turkish Government, but I understand that the Vali of Smyrna made an offer of £50 in settlement of the claim to the company's agent. This offer was refused. His Majesty's Embassy have on several occasions reminded the Porte that the case was still outstanding. The present is, of course, not a moment when the matter can be dealt with.