HC Deb 09 November 1921 vol 148 cc393-4
51. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government have any information as to Petlura's attack upon the Soviet Government; how far has the attack gone; and has His Majesty's Government any information from Bucharest as to the origination of this latest attack from Rumanian territory?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Information has reached His Majesty's Government that an anti-Bolshevik insurrection has broken out in Podolia, but I am not in a position to say how far Petlura may or may not be concerned, nor to what extent it has spread. No report has been received from Rumania, nor have I any information which would point to the movement having originated in that country.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Has the hon. Gentleman made any inquiries or will he do so from our Minister at Bucharest as to the origin of this movement from Rumanian territory? [HON. MEMBERS: "No, no!"]

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I see no reason why I should do so.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that Petlura is nothing but a bandit? [HON. MEMBERS: "Order, order!"]

Mr. SPEAKER

Really, it is an abuse of question time for hon. Members to put forward their own opinions in this way. It is also a waste of the time that should be devoted to the other questions on the Paper.