§ 67. Mr. FORRESTasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he proposes to appoint a Committee to investigate the claims of British firms and individuals against Russia now registered with the Foreign Office; and whether it is desirable to follow the example of other countries and prepare all documentary evidence and proof in readiness for the time of presentation?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI doubt the desirability of appointing a Committee of the kind at the present moment, as the investigation of such claims would, in most cases, necessitate enquiry being made in Russia.
As regards the second part of the question, I understand that steps are already being taken in the Foreign Office to collect and put in suitable form such documentary evidence as is available in this country.
§ 68. Mr. FORRESTasked the President of the Board of Trade what recommendations he is making to British companies with Russian connections who are finding 1795 that bearer bonds deposited with the Russian banks by their clients prior to the Bolshevist régime are now coming back to them from other countries, and who are wishful to know whether they should be recognised and honoured or interest paid on the coupons?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am not aware of any applications for advice having been made to the Board of Trade in the circumstances referred to by my hon. Friend.