§ Mr. Noel-Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make a statement concerning the present whereabouts of Tafara Werk, until lately interpreter at His Majesty's legation in Addis Ababa, who was arrested and imprisoned by the Italian army while he was still in His Majesty's employ?
§ Mr. EdenTafara Werk, who was formerly employed as interpreter at His Majesty's Legation at Addis Ababa and subsequently at His Majesty's Consulate-General, is not a British subject and his functions have never entitled him to enjoy a privileged position. While, therefore, His Majesty's Government have had nolocus standi to make representations on his behalf, the matter of his arrest and exile to Italy was nevertheless taken up with the Italian authorities. I am glad to be able to state that the Italian Government have now agreed to free Tafara Werk. Discussions are still proceeding about the detailed arrangements to be made in respect of his release. His Majesty's Government appreciate the good will which the Italian Government, and the personal interest which, I understand, the Head of the Italian Government, have shown in this matter.