§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether the British prisoners in Russia and Azerbaijan have yet been released, and, if so, whether trade with Russia will now be permitted?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAs the House has already been informed, the members of the Siberian Military Mission and certain of the British civilian prisoners have reached Finland. There remain a large number of British subjects in Russia whose repatriation has not yet been effected. There is, however, no reason to suppose that the Soviet Government do not intend to carry out their assurances on this subject. No information has yet been received as to the Baku prisoners having reached Tiflis. We are assured that as soon as British prisoners are released and all hostile propaganda by the Soviet Government against the British Empire has ceased, the trade agreement will be completed.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he can take steps to prevent inflammatory speeches, by Members of his Cabinet, inciting to war against Russia?
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTIs it a fact that Bolshevik forces have recently been endeavouring to go further into Persia, and will the right hon. Gentleman consider that also before dealing with the hon. and gallant Gentleman's question?
Mr. THOMASIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a lot of piffle is talked about Bolshevism in this country, and that the advertisement given to it by Members of his own Cabinet is far more likely to create trouble than to alleviate the situation?
§ Mr. W. THORNEAnswer, Churchill!
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Churchill)I will answer quick enough, if you will give me a chance.