HC Deb 18 November 1981 vol 13 c143W
28. Mr. Alton

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will make a statement on representations he has received and on the action he has taken to press the Soviet Government for the granting of exit visas for the seven Siberian Christians.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

A large number of letters from hon. Members and from members of the public have been received about this sad case. The ultimate responsibility for the resolution of their plight lies squarely with the Soviet Government. The United States authorities have been seeking to help these families to leave the Soviet Union for many years. I doubt whether any additional approach which we might make to the Soviet authorities would lead to a more positive outcome.