§ 82. Mr. SWANasked the Prime Minister whether in January of this year he opposed the proposal to blockade Russia; and whether an early opportunity will be given to the House to record its views on the action taken recently by the Allies with a view to securing help from Germany and neutral Powers in the continuance of the blockade?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. If there is a general desire for a 253 discussion of the situation in Russia for which an opportunity does not arise in the ordinary course, I shall be happy to arrange a day for it.
§ 83. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of public statements made in official evidence in -Washington, he is now in a position to modify or add to the declaration of Russian policy made by him in this House on 16th April?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe Prime Minister does not modify nor does he at present propose to add to the declaration of Russian policy made by him on the 16th April.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODAre we to understand that the present Russian policy of His Majesty's Government is to co-operate with the Germans in blockading Soviet Russia, and to use the troops of Colonel Bermondt against the Bolshevists?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWMy hon. and gallant Friend would only be justified in understanding that if it was a declaration of policy made on the date named by the Prime Minister.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODAs the circumstances have entirely changed since April last, would it not be possible for the Prime Minister to make a statement bringing the position of bur relations with the Russian Government up to date?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI have already said that if there is any desire to discuss the Russian situation the Government will be perfectly ready to have a debate at any time.