§ Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what communication he has had with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics authorities about the three soldiers of the Royal Scots Fusiliers who crossed to the Soviet zone of Berlin in January.
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§ Mr. NuttingOn 28th January the General Officer Commanding, Berlin, wrote to the Berlin Representative of the Soviet Control Commission requesting the return of these men who, it was believed, were in the Soviet Sector. Mr. Dengin replied on 12th February that the three men had applied to the East German Government for political asylum. On 13th February the General Officer Commanding again wrote requesting that facilities be granted for a British officer to interview the three soldiers. This request has been refused on the ground that the men do not wish for an interview. Her Majesty's Government are now considering what further action can be taken in the matter.