20. Sir F. HALLasked the President of the Board of Trade if the Government have any information respecting the reported acquisition by the Vander lip syndicate from the Soviet Government of a large portion of territory in North- 15 Eastern Siberia for development for trading and industrial purposes; if the terms of the arrangement under which Russia has undertaken, in exchange for American goods to the value of $3,000,000,000, to pay the syndicate in gold, platinum, furs, and other goods, affect the value of the trading agreement now being negotiated with the Soviet delegates in this country; and if the concession has been officially recognised by the American and Japanese Governments?
§ Sir R. HORNEI have seen statements to this effect in the Press, and am taking steps to obtain further information on the subject.
Sir F. HALLIf I repeat the question in a week's time, does the right hon. Gentleman think he can give an answer then?
§ Sir R. HORNEI do not know how soon I shall be able to give an answer, because there are very many reports that are loose in their character and not reliable. I do not wish to place before the House and the country any information which I cannot vouch for in this matter.