HC Deb 29 March 1965 vol 709 c177W
99. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of the ill-treatment of a British correspondent, Mr. Antony Currah, by the police of Montgomery, Alabama, on or about 17th March; what action on his behalf was taken by consular officials; and if he will instruct Her Majesty's Ambassador in Washington to make representations on this matter to the United States Government.

Mr. George Thomson

I am aware of Mr. Currah's arrest and of his alleged ill-treatment. Her Majesty's Consul at New Orleans heard of the arrest early on 17th of March. He immediately spoke to the authorities at Montgomery and also to Mr. Currah, who stated that he had decided to pay a small fine in order to secure his immediate release. Her Majesty's Consul has made appropriate representations to the authorities at Montgomery. Neither Mr. Currah nor his newspaper has asked for any further action.