43. Lieut.-Colonel MALONEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any information as to the proposed duration of the Allied blockade of Russia; and on what circumstances its duration depends?
Mr. HARMSWORTHI presume that by the expression "the blockade of Russia" the hon. and gallant Member refers to the steps which the Allied and Associated Governments have, taken to prevent trade with that part of Russia which is at present under Bolshevik rule. As far as His Majesty's Government are concerned, it is proposed that these measures—which do not, in fact, constitute a blockade in the legal sense of the term—shall continue until a democratic Government which can be recognised by the Allies has been established in the part of Russia in question.
§ Captain W. BENNHas the opinion of this House ever been taken as to the continuance of a war with and a blockade of Russia?
Mr. HARMSWORTHMy hon. and gallant Friend is as well qualified to answer that question as I am myself.
§ Major Earl WINTERTONIf there is a blockade of Russia, how is it that people are allowed to go to Russia at the present time? Who gave the hon. and gallant Gentleman his passport?
§ Mr. BILLINGDid the hon. and gallant Gentleman go with the cognisance of or in any official capacity for the Government?
Lieut.-Colonel MALONEIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the terrible privations that are caused in Russia by this blockade?
§ Mr. BILLINGIs the hon. Gentleman aware that unless it caused privation there would not be any good doing it?
55. Lieut.-Colonel MALONEasked the Prime Minister whether a state of war exists between His Majesty's Government and the Soviet republic of Russia?
§ Mr. BONAR LAW (Leader of the House)Perhaps the hon. Member will await the Debate this afternoon, which will afford a better opportunity of dealing with this matter than by question and answer.