HC Deb 15 June 1921 vol 143 cc384-5
10. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will state what information he has respecting the situation in Vladivostock, the maritime province of Siberia, and the Island of Sakhalin; whether a British Consular Officer, or other representative of His Majesty, is in the districts affected by the recent attempt at counter-revolution; if he is aware that the recent coup d'état setting up a counter-revolutionary government at Vladivostock was undertaken with Japanese assistance and support; whether the Russian portion of Sakhalin has been occupied by the Japanese; and whether the Japanese Government has consulted His Majesty's Government with reference to these actions?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I must refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply which I gave him on 8th June, since when the situation has not altered materially. The position of His Majesty's Consul at Vladivostock has not been affected by recent events at that place. His Majesty's Government are not aware that the Japanese have given any support to the counter - revolutionary movement. Northern Saghalien has been occupied by the Japanese for some time past. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these troops took part in the fighting against the Government troops, assisted the Czarist troops and actually hoisted the Czarist flag on the public buildings of Vladivostock, and how can he say that he has no knowledge of these events?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

If the hon. and gallant Gentleman has any information I have not got and will give it to me I shall be glad.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will the hon. Gentleman cable our representative at Vladivostock asking whether the Japanese did take any part in the counter-revolution?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I will carefully consider that.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the papers have full accounts of these proceedings, and how is it that he is not in a position to confirm or deny them?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Surely the hon. and gallant Gentleman recognises that I can only give this House information which is officially confirmed.