§ 45. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Prime Minister whether any representations have been made by the Finnish Government for a loan; and, if so, whether His Majesty's Government will bear in 872 mind, before considering any such proposition, the continued imprisonment in that country of the surviving Red prisoners, including a large number of Socialist Members of Parliaments?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODAs regards the first part of the question, His Majesty's Government were requested last June to grant facilities for the raising of a loan by the Finnish Government through private firms in this country, and a reply was made to the effect that no difficulties would be placed in the way of raising the loan in question. The second part of the question does not, therefore, arise.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the Government consider the inadvisability of making such loans or credits to the Finnish Government so long as these men are kept in prison under the circumstances recently disclosed?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI have answered the question put down upon the Paper, and I do not like to go any further.
§ Mr. RAPERIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that it is not only in the interests of Finland, but also of this country to take any steps that may be considered desirable to prevent a recurrence of this affair?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODEvery step is being taken that can be taken by this Government.