HC Deb 03 April 1917 vol 92 cc1119-20
42. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the desirability of giving the utmost encouragement to the popular Government now established in Russia, he will send to Petrograd a special mission, not confined to Members of the Government or to Members of Parliament, but comprising leaders of thought and champions of progressive movements, whose mission it shall be to foster fraternal relations between this country and Russia?

The MINISTER of BLOCKADE (Lord Robert Cecil)

His Majesty's Government desire to do anything in their power to promote freedom, good order and efficiency in the great Russian community. But whether a mission composed of "leaders of thought" would conduce to this object is a matter for consideration.

Mr. LYNCH

In view of the fact that on the occasion of the Coronation of the Czar a special deputation was sent, will the right hon. Gentleman not now send a deputation to this new Government, having in mind the fact that one representative Republican is worth all the monarchs in Christendom?

Mr. OUTHWAITE

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman—

Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER

Hon. Members are not entitled to debate every question that is placed on the Paper.