§ Mr. HANCOCK(by Private Notice) asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he can give the House any information concerning reported mobilisation and massing of troops, and rumours of a new war, by the Soviet Government, and in view of our grant of money to feed starving Russians, could he represent to the Soviet 646 Government that by pursuing a policy of peace it would be promoting those friendly relationships, between their Government and ours, which we are anxious to see?
Mr. CHAMBERLAIN (Leader of the House)Nothing is known of any intention on the part of the Soviet Government to embark on any new war. A slight increase of troops in the West of Russia is believed to have taken place since the beginning of the year. Reports have been received of the partial mobilisation of one class in the Western districts, but this, even if confirmed, would not necessarily signify a warlike measure, as this class is due to be called up in the spring.