40. Colonel NEWMANasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to a report that the Communist Government of Russia is negotiating a concession of 400,000 square miles of its territory to the representatives of a large American trust; and will he take steps to ensure that under this concession the existing rights of British subjects are respected?
§ Mr. SWANBefore the right hon. Gentleman answers that question, may I ask the hon. Gentleman if he is aware that these chances have been lost by the blind refusal of the Government?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Sir P. Lloyd-Greame)My hon. Friend had better hear the answer. I have been asked to reply. As the President of the Board of Trade stated on Monday last, inquiries arc being made on this subject. I should be glad to consider any information in the possession of my hon. and gallant Friend which leads him to think that this concession may infringe existing rights of British subjects.
Lieut.-Colonel J. WARDIs the hon. Gentleman aware that Japanese troops occupied this territory more than a year ago, and that Japan is not likely to let go these territories for American trusts or anyone else?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI do not think I should be entitled to answer a supplementary question of that kind, and I am afraid I could not debate the proposition of my right hon. and gallant Friend.