§ 52. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Prime Minister, whether M. Krassin, when last in London as representative of the Russian Government, requested a meeting with some Member of the Government; whether this request was refused; and, if so, for what reason?
§ Mr. McNEILLSince the conclusion of the Russian Trade Agreement, it has been the practice for the head of the Russian Trade Delegation to be received by the official in charge of the Department of the Foreign Office principally concerned, rind this arrangement has proved adequate for the transaction of business. When M. Krassin in January last proposed a different arrangement, as indicated in the question, the reply was returned that it was thought better to adhere to the existing procedure.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the request was made because of the change of Government in this country, and that previously M. Krassin had been received by the Prime Minister and by other Cabinet Ministers of the old Government? Why was he treated in this way by this Government?
§ Mr. McNEILLI think the answer which I have given holds good to the question.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYMay I press the hon. Gentleman about this? What object is there in either the Secretary of State or himself refusing to see the representative of another Government? What good does it do? May I have an answer?
§ Mr. McNEILLYes, certainly, if the hon. and gallant Gentleman will resume his seat. It remains true that the answer which I have given covers the question of the hon. and gallant Gentleman.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYMay I ask further if the hon. Gentleman is aware that the only result has been that 1756 our representative at Moscow is labouring under very great difficulty and is refused access to responsible Ministers in the Russian Government?
§ Mr. McNEILLI think that raises an argumentative point which cannot be pursued at Question Time.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYI will pursue it at the earliest opportunity.