§ Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on what basis his Department charged the British subjects involved in the hijack of the Achille Lauro passenger ship for their return flights to the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarThe British subjects involved in the hijack of the Achillo Lauro were charged on the basis of the undertakings to repay and requests for repatriation which they signed, the terms of which made it clear that the advances for their return fares to the United Kingdom were temporary and repayable. We have, however, absolutely no wish to cause financial hardship to the victims of this hijacking. I have written to the six people involved and instructed officials in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to discuss with them possible methods and sources of repayment. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office will be as helpful and sympathetic as it can.