7. Lieut. - Colonel Sir PHILIP RICHARDSONasked the President of the Board of Trade how many persons are at present employed in the Russian Claims Department; and what time he estimates to be necessary for the completion of the investigation of these claims and their classification so that they may be submitted to the Soviet Government?
Mr. WEBBThe number of persons on the whole-time staff of the Russian Claims Department is three, with the addition of such assistance as is required from time to time from the staff of the Clearing Office. The claims have already been classified, and particulars of the amounts claimed in the various categories have been furnished to the Soviet delegation. With regard to their further investigation, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by the Prime Minister to the hon. Member for Erdington on the 18th June, a copy of which I am sending him.