HC Deb 22 December 1919 vol 123 cc1001-2
51. Captain COOTE

asked the Prime Minister whether the projected alliance between the States on the fringes of Russia has been in any way promoted or assisted by His Majesty's Government; whether this country has now any official military or civil representatives in those States and, if so, where; and if he will consider the advisability of establishing a permanent mission of high standing in the Baltic States in view of the fact that the existence of these States under a stable and peaceable form of government is the best defence of Western civilisation against the spread of terrorism?

Mr. BONAR LAW

It has always been the endeavour of His Majesty's Government, without interfering in the internal affairs of the Border States of Russia, to promote relations of harmony between them. As regards the second part of the question, His Majesty's Government are represented in Finland and Poland by Ministers in the Baltic States and in Trans-Caucasia, by Commissioners. As regards the third part, there is no reason for believing that the existing arrangements for His Majesty's representation in the Baltic States are in any way inadequate at the present time.

Captain COOTE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these States may be driven, for economic reasons, to make peace with the Bolshevik Government unless we come to their assistance?

Mr. BONAR LAW

This question has been debated often in this House, and I am sure that I can give no useful information by means of question and answer.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Would it not assist these States materially if they were recognised de facto as independent?

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