HC Deb 03 March 1920 vol 126 c419
54. Colonel NEWMAN

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government are able to obtain any authentic first-hand information as to the present condition of affairs in Russia; and whether they have been able to obtain a report on the working of conscription as applied to labour and as introduced by the communist government in a portion of that country?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

With regard to the first part of the question, His Majesty's Government have received a number of first-hand reports from persons who have returned from Russia, and they have, of course, seen those that have appeared in the Press in the form of direct telegrams from Moscow. As my hon. and gallant Friend knows, it is with the view of obtaining authentic information as to the conditions in Russia that the Supreme Council of the Allies has recommended to the League of Nations that a Mission should be sent to Russia.

Colonel NEWMAN

May I have an answer to the last part of my question?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

The answer is that no authentic information is at present in the possession of the Government.

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

When will the Government be in a position to give any information as to the composition of this Committee of Inquiry?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I have no further information I can give my hon. and gallant Friend.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is it not the fact that the only people who object to the conscription of labour are those who get their living without work?

Colonel NEWMAN

Can we have the Report published?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I must have notice of that question.