HC Deb 29 June 1951 vol 489 cc166-7W
Mr. Snow

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that refugees in this country are being subjected to pressure by members of the Soviet diplomatic mission to return to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics; and what action he proposes to take.

Mr. H. Morrison:

Yes, Sir. I understand that an increasing number of refugees are receiving these unwelcome attentions which take the form not only of letters containing propagandist literature, but also of unsolicited visits by Soviet officials. The situation is being carefully watched. Meanwhile, I should like it to be fully understood by all refugees that they are in no sense obliged to entertain such solicitations, let alone yield to them. Refugees resident in this country can rest assured that they have the full protection of our courts and that no foreign authority can by arbitrary action force them to leave this country against their will.