HC Deb 08 May 1922 vol 153 cc1780-1
29. Colonel NEWMAN

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to statements that the rights in the oil-producing areas of Russia are being conceded on terms by the Russian Communist Government to powerful groups connected with the oil industry; and will he say what steps the Government of this country is taking to safeguard the rights of British-owned oil undertakings that were operating in Russia prior to their seizure by the Communist Government?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The position of British-owned oil companies in Russia is not being overlooked.

Mr. J. JONES

Is it true that the representatives of the Standard Oil interests have left Genoa?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I do not know.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Can the right hon. Gentleman state whether his policy is to support, or otherwise, the efforts of Britishers to regain oil concessions?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise.

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