HC Deb 19 March 1951 vol 485 cc224-5W
64. Mr. Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in view of delay in settling claims made by British subjects under the Anglo-Italian Peace Treaty, particularly those made by a constituent of the hon. Member for Brighton, Pavilion, particulars of which are known to the Foreign Office, what steps he is taking to see that such claims are dealt with more expeditiously by the Italian Government.

Mr. Younger

We are disappointed with the progress made by the Italian Government in dealing with these claims. The question is constantly under review and His Majesty's Government are losing no opportunity of pressing the Italian Government to expedite a settlement. I cannot undertake to ask for priority of treatment for any individual claim unless the case is one of real hardship.

Mr. Somerset de Chair

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Government will make representations to the Italian Government with a view to an early settlement by that Government of the claims of British citizens under Article 78 of the Italian Peace Treaty.

Mr. Younger

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave today to the hon. Member for the Brighton, Pavilion (Mr. Teeling), to which I have nothing to add.