§ 51. Mr. HANNONasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the statement in the Press that the Russian Soviet Government has expressed its unwillingness to apply for admission to the League of Nations, to which it refers as the imperialistic great Powers' weapon for oppressing small peoples; and whether, should this attitude be maintained by the Soviet representatives shortly to arrive in London, the negotiations between the Soviet Government and His Majesty's Government will continue?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Ponsonby)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. His Majesty's Government cannot, however, act on the principle that they can have dealings only with Governments represented on or favourable to the League of Nations.
§ Mr. HANNONIs the hon. Gentleman prepared to make any representations to the Russian Government?
§ Mr. PONSONBYI have nothing to add.