HC Deb 26 February 1920 vol 125 cc1885-6
34. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister what naval forces are at present in being in the Black Sea or elsewhere manned by partisans of General Denikin, K.C.B.; and whether these ships will be permitted to prey upon Russian commerce or to attempt a blockade of Russian coasts and ports?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)

I have been asked to answer this question. My hon. and gallant Friend is here referring, not to the British Navy, but to the Russian ships under General Denikin. We cannot undertake to make public such information as is in our possession regarding the strength of those forces, nor am I in a position to state what course would be taken if the situation con templated in the last part of the question should arise.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Am I to understand that we are permitting Corsairs to prey on trade in the Black Sea while we are trying to open trade with Russia?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I did not say that.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Can we have an answer?