§ 3. Mr. KINGasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Russian Government's reply on inquiries made by the British Government concerning Russian subjects of military age in this country has now been received?
§ Lord R. CECILYes, Sir. The Russian Government have expressed their readiness to conclude an agreement with His Majesty's Government on the subject, which is at present being considered by the competent Departments.
§ Mr. KINGWill reports from any Member of this House on the subject be considered before the matter is finally settled?
§ Sir J. D. REESBefore the Noble Lord replies, may I inquire whether anything is likely to be more unpleasant to the Russian Government than a discussion of this matter in the House of Commons. Do they ever discuss similar matters in which we are concerned?
§ Mr. KINGBefore a reply is given, may I ask whether private communications, not a public discussion here, from persons well acquainted with this matter, will receive due consideration?
§ Lord R. CECILCertainly; I hope any communication from any Member of this House to any Minister of the Crown will always receive consideration.