HC Deb 14 February 1924 vol 169 cc1002-3
60. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime. Minister whether he has found it possible to send any message of condolence to the Russian Government on the death of Lenin, either through our Charge d'Affaires in Moscow, or direct; and if he is aware that the head of the Russian Mission to Great Britain offered his condolences on the death of the right hon. Andrew Bonar Law by direction of his Government?

Mr. PONSONBY

On receipt of the news of the death of Lenin, it was decided to leave it to Mr. Hodgson to take or to join in any action at Moscow that might be officially appropriate to the occasion. This decision was taken on 22nd January, the day before the present Government was formed and ten days before de jure recognition was given to the Soviet Government. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

What action did Mr. Hodgson take? Was he associated with the German Ambassador who, on behalf of the whole Diplomatic Corps in Moscow, tendered such an expression of condolence?

Mr. PONSONBY

I have not yet received any report.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

If I repeat a similar question next week, will my hon. Friend be able to give me the information?