§ 29. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Prime Minister whether the Trade Agreement recently concluded with the Government of Russia postpones the discussion of the pre-revolution external indebtedness of Russia to a general peace conference to be held hereafter; when His Majesty's Government proposes to take steps to invite all Governments interested to take part in such a conference; and whether a preliminary peace conference, at which all political questions 709 outstanding as well as debts could be discussed, can be held between His Majesty's Government and the Government of Russia?
§ The PRIME MINISTERHis Majesty's Government consider that the first step is to bring the Trade Agreement into practical working. They are not prepared to make proposals for a general conference until they have gained experience of the working of this Agreement.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many financial questions concerning British subjects are held up until this general conference is held; and does he also see that while that state prevails, it is difficult in some cases for trade to be started?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI think we had better see whether one arrangement will work before we start a more comprehensive one.