§ 3. Lieut.-Colonel Sir S. HOAREasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the political interests involved in South Russia, Sofia, and Vienna, a political agent or commissioner can at once be sent by the Foreign Office to each of these places with definite instructions as to the policy of His Majesty's Government and an adequate staff to carry it into effect?
Mr. HARMSWORTHIf by South Russia the hon. and gallant Member is referring to the areas controlled by General Denikin, a British Military Mission has been attached to General Denikin's headquarters, and an Economic Mission has been despatched by the Supreme Economic Council at Paris to investigate conditions on the spot.
As regards Bulgaria and Austria, I would remind the hon. Gentleman that a 1573 state of war still exists with those countries, and diplomatic relations are, therefore, strictly speaking, impossible. But owing to the very special circumstances, His Majesty's Government have been carefully considering the question of making exceptional appointments to Sofia and Vienna, and it is hoped that a definite decision in the matter will be taken shortly. In the meantime, there are, as the hon. and gallant Gentleman is no doubt aware, British Military Missions at Sofia and Vienna which are examining conditions in Bulgaria and Austria.
§ Sir S. HOAREWould the hon. Gentleman answer the question on the Paper, whether a Political Agent will be sent to South Russia? That is the whole point of the question.
Mr. HARMSWORTHI am sorry the answer did not make that clear, but perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will put down another question.
Lieut.-Colonel A. MURRAYWill the Foreign Office consider the advisability of sending a political agent to South Russia in addition to the British Military Mission?
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYHas the Foreign Office any responsibility at all in this matter as regards the political situation in South Russia, or is it entirely under the War Office?