§ Mr. Hollisasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the condemnation of Mr. Frederick William Sylvester by a court of the so-called Israeli Government; and what action His Majesty's Government propose to take in the matter.
§ Mr. MayhewHis Majesty's Government have followed this case throughout with the closest attention. As soon as five British subjects, among them Mr. Sylvester, were seized in Jerusalem, vigorous protests were lodged in all appropriate quarters, including the United Nations Security Council. Action taken by His Majesty's Government includes active assistance in selecting and briefing the best available legal defence. Mr. Richard Levy, K.C., was sent from London to advise the three local lawyers engaged on the case, and one-half of his expenses are being met from public funds. It has been possible to obtain the release of four out of the five men, but Mr. Sylvester was sentenced on 8th October to seven years' imprisonment. Mr. Sylvester's appeal will be heard in Jerusalem on 3rd November and His Majesty's Government have made the best possible arrangements for his legal representation.