HC Deb 02 October 1924 vol 177 cc296-7
23. Sir ROBERT LYNN

asked the President of the Board of Educations whether his Department has made a proposal to the Soviet Government of Russia that Bolshevist teachers should be brought to Great Britain; and whether he can state what subjects these Bolshevists are to teach?

Mr. TREVELYAN

In anticipation of an increase in trade with Russia and of a demand for greater facilities for learning the Russian language, I have been having enquiries made to see whether it is possible to promote the study of the Russian language in this country by means of an interchange of teachers and students between the two countries, but I have not yet received any report.

Mr. TURNER

Is it not a fact that during the years 1914 to 1916 we were urged to advocate the teaching of Russian in our schools in Great Britain?

Captain Viscount CURZON

Would these students and teachers receive diplomatic immunity?

Sir HARRY BRITTAIN

Is it not a fact that there are at the present moment thousands of people in this country who are capable of teaching the Russian language?

Mr. GREENE

Will the reply of the right hon. Gentleman be forwarded to the Horse Marines?

Commander O. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Will murder be taught in the schools?

Several hon. Members rose

Mr. SPEAKER

The Minister tells us that there is no definite proposal. We canot pursue the matter at this stage.

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