§ 22. Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what were the duties of the British Naval Mission recently captured at Baku; and why they were sent to that port?
§ Mr. LONGThe Naval Mission was being sent to Persia to assist the Military at Enzeli on naval matters. The route viâ Batum and Baku appeared at the time to afford the quickest means of getting to Persia.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYCan the right hon. Gentleman say if this Mission is on its way to commission General Denikin's interned fleet again; and, if so, is that consistent with the policy laid down by the Prime Minister in this House?
§ Mr. LONGI think so. If there be any inconsistency, it is not on the part of the Admiralty. I can assure the hon. Member that there is nothing inconsistent in the policy of the Government in their action in sending out this Naval Mission.
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTCan the right hon. Gentleman say what excuse was given for the capture of these British officers?
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTThe Bolsheviks. Has M. Krassin given any reason?
§ Mr. LONGI do not know whether they are likely to give any reason for what they did. So far as I know they have not been asked.
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTHas any explanation been asked of M. Krassin on this question? May I press for an answer?
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs it a fact that these men were at Baku on their way to Enzeli, in order to take over the command of the ships of General Denikin?
§ Mr. LONGThey were sent out to give naval advice. I do not think it was their duty to take over. At that time it seemed desirable to save these ships, if possible, and they were sent out to give naval advice.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYPrisoners of War.
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTIs it not a fact that M. Krassin has been told that these prisoners are to be released?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is a long way from the question on the Paper.
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTI submit that it is in order.
§ Mr. SPEAKERIt is not relevant to the question on the Paper.