39. Major DAVIESasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to an appeal to the Allies by M. Vladimir Burtseff, the Russian revolutionary, strongly urging that military assistance should be given to Russia; and whether he can give an assurance to the House that the Allies are co-operating together for this purpose?
§ Lord R. CECILThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second part, His Majesty's Government have given repeated assurances of their desire to assist Russia in her present difficult situation, and are in constant consultation with the Allied Governments as to the most effective way of rendering such assistance
§ Mr. SNOWDENIn view of the recognition by the Government of the importance of co-operating with Russia, does not the Government think it is most important to take the step of recognising the present Government of Russia?
§ Lord R. CECILThat is a much larger question than anything that has been indicated in the question on the Paper.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is possible, adequately or efficiently, to help Russia without being in contact with the de facto Russian Government?
§ Lord R. CECILThere is a great distinction between being in contact with the de facto Russian Government and recognising it.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether he is in public contact with the de facto Government of Russia?
§ Lord R. CECILI thought it was generally known that we had taken means months ago to put ourselves into contact with that Government.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODHas the right hon. Gentleman seen Mr. Litvinoff?