§ 16. Mr. KINGasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the declaration of the British Government, made in the Press on 31st July, that the action of the Allies in Russia is of a temporary character, no menace to Russian sovereignty is intended, and these objects once obtained, not a single 905 Allied soldier would remain on Russian soil, was made on behalf and with the consent of France, Japan, and the United States?
Mr. BALFOURWe have made no declaration on behalf of our Allies. What we said on our own behalf was
The aim of His Majesty's Government is to secure the political and economic restoration of Russia, without internal interference of any kind, and to bring about the expulsion of enemy forces from Russian soil. His Majesty's Government categorically declare that they have no intention whatever of infringing in the slightest degree the territorial integrity of Russia.I have no doubt that this is in harmony with the view of all the Associated Governments.
§ Mr. KINGIs it not just as well to enforce that admirable statement of our aims with the definite and express consent of our Allies?
Mr. BALFOUROur Allies may or may not think it wise to have a joint declaration, but it is sufficient that the various Governments should make their own declarations. It might be a good addition to that, but I am not responsible for that.
§ Mr. SNOWDENWill the right hon. Gentleman explain what he means by the use of the words "restoration of the political position of Russia" in his answer?
Mr. BALFOURThe words were
to secure the political and economic restoration of Russia.That means we hope to see Russia in a more orderly condition politically than it is at the present time. It means that among other things.
§ Mr. SNOWDENAre we to understand that it is the view of the Government and the Allies that the best way to promote the political restoration of Russia is to accentuate civil war there?
Mr. BALFOURNo, Sir. I made it perfectly clear in what I said. If I did not make it clear I will read the words again. We do not propose to interfere in the internal arrangements of Russia. Russia must manage her own affairs. But there is nothing inconsistent with the general statement in anything I have said.
§ Mr. LEES-SMITHWould the right hon. Gentleman make a statement that 906 they do not intend to assist any of those factions in Russia who are attempting to overthrow the Soviet Government?