§ 3. Sir VICTOR WARRENDERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the Soviet authorities in Tiflis have informed the local manager of the Russo-Caucasian Company, Limited, that the decree published by the Soviet authorities on the 5th June ordering the Russo-Caucasian Company, Limited, to liquidate its business has not been suspended; and, in view of this fact, what action he now proposes taking in this matter?
§ Mr. PONSONBYThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. His Majesty's Charge d'Affaires at Moscow has been instructed by telegraph to urge the authorities at Moscow to telegraph instructions to Tiflis in the sense of the assurances given to Mr. Hodgson by the Commissariat of Foreign Affairs.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURYCan the hon. Gentleman say whether the Soviet Government have given their reasons for suspending this business? Is it due to a desire to prevent private traders carrying on business?
§ Mr. PONSONBYNo, they have not given their reason.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURYWill the hon. Gentleman press for the reasons?