§ 5. Mr. W. R. SMITHasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether this country had any Diplomatic or Consular representative or representatives in Finland during the period April to July, 1918; if so, whether reports were received 1136 from him or them concerning the way in which the Finnish White (Anti-Socialist) Government suppressed the White Socialist regime; whether he is aware that at the end of the civil war the Red Army, having surrendered to the White and German, forces, many Red soldiers and women were slaughtered by the Finnish and German-soldiery; whether General Mannerheim has been in command of the Finnish White Army co-operating with the Germans; whether General Mannerheim has since then visited London; and whether the-Government recognises or has recognised General Mannerheim as Regent of Finland?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Mr. Grove was His Majesty's Consul at Helsingfors during the period in question. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative. As regards the third part, the attention of His Majesty's Government was drawn to the protest of certain Finnish Socialists on the subject, but they have received no detailed reports in regard to the action of the Finnish and German soldiery. To the fourth part the answer is that General Mannerheim was in command of the Finnish forces at the time the Germans went to Finland, but resigned in May, 1918, with many other Finnish officers, on account of excessive German interference in Finnish-affairs. According to a report received from Helsingfors in June, 1918, General Mannerheim was regarded by the German Staff in Finland as being too pro-Ally. To the fifth, in the affirmative; and to the sixth, that His Majesty's Government have recognised the independence of Finland, of which General Mannerheim is the elected Regent.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYMay I ask how the recognition of Finland is reconciled with the public declaration of General Denikin that one of his aims is a powerful and indivisible Russia, and is there any intention on the part of the Government to alter their policy with regard to the Finnish Republic in view of the declaration of our Ally General Denikin?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODIt is not for me to make a declaration of policy. The policy in these matters would be expressed by those in high authority who sit on this or other benches.
§ Lieut-Commander KENWORTHYMay we take it that there has been no change of policy towards Finland?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI can add nothing to the answer I have already given.