HC Deb 27 July 1922 vol 157 cc687-8
Mr. WISE

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether it is to be understood from the declarations made On behalf of the Government in the Debate yesterday that if the Russian Government returns an unconditional affirmative to the questions put by M. Litvinoff the Government will be prepared to assist British property owners and others in their negotiations with the Soviet Government?

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, Sir. If the Russian Government announces plainly its intention to pursue the policy foreshadowed by the Russian Delegation at The Hague, the British Government would certainly do all in their power to assist their nationals to enter into negotiations with the Russian Government and to carry such negotiations to a successful Conclusion. The extension to Russian trade of facilities under my scheme of export credit and trade facilities would follow in due course.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Will the assistance include the appointment of an Ambassador at Moscow?

Mr. CLYNES

In the event of the affirmative answer referred to in that reply, are we to understand that it will be followed by a further Conference to carry out the arrangements?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am not so sure that that will be necessary.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask for a reply to my question?

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