§ Mr. WinnickTo ask the Prime Minister what was his response to the delegation which met him on 21 June concerning former British prisoners of war held by the Japanese; and if he will make a statement. [31135]
§ Mr. NewtonI have been asked to reply.
My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister expressed his very great sympathy for all that the former prisoners had endured. While recalling the Government's view of legal position, he said that he had discussed the matter with successive Japanese Prime Ministers and would continue to pursue it. He agreed to ask his Japanese counterpart if he would meet representatives of the former prisoners when they visit Japan next month.