46. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLasked the Prime Minister whether, in connection with his promise to afford an opportunity for a discussion of Anglo-Russian relations, he will make arrangements for the issue beforehand to Members of a White Paper, containing a collection of despatches and reports received from British representatives in Russia, China, Persia and other countries which bear upon the question of the observance by the Soviet authorities of the clauses in the trading agreement relating to abstention from hostile acts and propaganda?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Godfrey Locker-Lampson)The material which could be laid before the House consists in the main of reports of speeches, manifestoes and such like, which have received a great measure of publicity already in the Press. In the circumstances, it is not thought that there would be any advantage in laying a paper, but further consideration will be given to the question before the Prime Minister fixes a day for the discussion.
Sir F. HALLAfter a date has been fixed for the discussion, may I ask, owing to the widespread indignation at the manner in which the Russian Government have acted, will the hon. Gentleman reconsider the question, in order that Members of this House may have an opportunity of having the whole information before them in a concise form?
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYIf there is widespread indignation, why is it necessary to publish any document?
§ Mr. SPEAKERHon. Members always want to make little speeches whenever the question of Russia is raised.
§ Mr. MOSLEYWill the hon. Gentleman also issue a White Paper containing an account of any conversations between the Home Secretary and the Tsarist Body?
§ Mr. THURTLE rose—
§ Mr. SPEAKERSo many hon. Members desire to make speeches. Hon. Members really must wait till the promised day arrives.