§ 7. Mr. KINGasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether Great Britain has now recognised the Republic of Finland; and, if so, whether diplomatic relations have been or will be opened with Finland as a neutral State?
§ Mr. WATTIs there greater hesitancy on the part of the Government to recognise a republic than to recognise a monarchy?
§ Mr. KINGIn view of the closer relationship now being entered into by Germany and Finland, is this matter receiving consideration—whether we should recognise the Finnish Republic?
Mr. BALFOURI do not know whether the hon. Gentleman thinks that closer relationship between Finland and Germany is an additional reason for recognising or for not recognising. I am not quite sure what he does mean.
§ Mr. KINGDoes the right hon. Gentleman not realise that when a neutral State has close relationship with the enemy, it is also our best part to encourage close relationship, so that they shall not be permeated by enemy influence?