§ 16. Mr. DAVID MASONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the existing Russian Government is now formally recognised by His Majesty's Government; who is our representative there; whether there is a British mission now in Russia and of whom is it 695 composed; and whether, in view of our financial interests and the possibilities of future trade and commerce with that country, His Majesty's Government will appoint a financial representative to help Russia in the reorganisation of her finances?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND (Department of Overseas Trade)The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. There is no accredited British representative in Russia, but British interests, both political and economic, are in charge of various missions there. In the event of any invitation being received from Russia for the assistance of His Majesty's Government in the reorganisation of her finances, I should be glad to consider the appointment of a special financial representative for this purpose.
§ Mr. BILLINGIs there any accredited representative of the Russian Government in this country?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat does not arise out of this question.