HC Deb 23 April 1917 vol 92 cc2035-6
61. Mr. SNOWDEN

asked the Prime Minister if the Government will extend an invitation to the Workmen's and Soldiers' Council at Petrograd to send a delegation to great Britain so that they may learn first hand of the sympathy of the British workers with the revolution, and that an exchange of views may take place for promoting closer relations among the international proletariat and the prosecution of common aims?

Lord R. CECIL

A complimentary mission has already been sent by British labour to Russia for the purpose of expressing the sympathy of the British workers with those of Russia and of promoting closer relations in their mutual cooperation to defeat the common enemy.

Mr. SNOWDEN

Is the Noble Lord aware that no mission, complimentary or otherwise, has been sent to Russia on behalf of British labour, and that the only mission which has been sent is one sent by the Government to carry out the Government's policy?

Lord R. CECIL

No; I am not aware of the truth of that statement, which appears to me to be altogether at variance with the facts.

Mr. PRINGLE

By whom was this complimentary delegation selected?

Lord R. CECIL

I am told by the representatives of labour.

Mr. DEVLIN

Will the Noble Lord consider the desirability of inviting representatives of free Russia to come over and consider the government of Ireland?

Lord R. CECIL

I do not think I should like to impose that burden on anyone.

Mr. SNOWDEN

Would the Noble Lord mind answering my question on the Paper, to which he has made no reference, whether the Government will invite representatives to confer with British labour?

Lord R. CECIL

I have already explained what action the Government has taken. It appears to me to be an answer to what the hon. Member asks.

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Will not the Noble Lord consider the question of inviting to this country a delegation from Russia so that we can know the views at first hand of the Russian people?

Lord R. CECIL

I shall consider any suggestion made by any hon. Member, and I will consider that.

Mr. DEVLIN

Will the Noble Lord consider my suggestion?