§ Major ENTWISTLEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that it is now over a month since the trawler "St. Hubert" was arrested and confiscated by the Russian authorities, and that the Soviet Government have admitted that the confiscation was in excess of authority; and whether, in view of the uncertain position in which the owners are placed and the great loss they are suffering, the British Government will take steps to expedite the release of the vessel?
Mr. HARMSWORTHThe arrest of the "St. Hubert" took place on 3rd March. The Soviet Government adheres to its view as to the 12-mile limit for territorial waters, but there is now evidence to show that the capture took place 14 miles from tin Russian coast, and His Majesty's Agent at Moscow has been asked to renew his representations, mentioning this new factor.