HC Deb 26 April 1961 vol 639 c38W
38. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Lord Privy Seal what has been done to secure the release of Mr. Peter Hopkirk, who was arrested in Havana, and of other British subjects and Commonwealth citizens detained in Cuba; and whether he will make a statement about measures taken to protect British and other Commonwealth lives, persons and property.

Mr. Heath

Her Majesty's Ambassador has made repeated attempts to secure the release of Mr. Hopkirk and other British subjects who have been arrested in Cuba. He is in close touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and as a result of his efforts already five person have been released.

Arrangements are in hand for the evacuation, if it should prove necessary, of those members of the British community who might wish to take advantage of advice to leave. However, it has not so far been thought necessary for such advice to be given. Evacuation would probably be by civilian, sea or air transport, and would of course require co-operation of the Cuban authorities. Early in the emergency all British and Commonwealth subjects in Cuba were advised by radio to keep in touch with the nearest consular official.

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