HC Deb 22 July 1929 vol 230 cc888-9
22. Mr. BOOTHBY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the political and economic problems relating to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics will be discussed in the forthcoming negotiations between Great Britain and the United States of America?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

As far as His Majesty's Government are concerned the answer is in the negative.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the outstanding difficulties between ourselves and Russia are much more likely to be removed if we acted in co-operation with the United States of America?

Mr. HENDERSON

There is serious objection, as I gather from questions, to our acting in any way in regard to Russia—

Viscountess ASTOR

Do not break their hearts.

Mr. HENDERSON

But I am convinced that to mix this question up with the conversations on naval disarmament would not lead to clarification.