HC Deb 13 March 1929 vol 226 cc1102-3
6. Mr. SAKLATVALA

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any considered reply has yet been made to the Soviet Government's protest against the raid on the Arcos building and for the damage caused to the Russian Government thereby?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I do not consider at necessary to make any further reply to the Note of the Soviet Charge d'Affaires of 13th May, 1927, beyond my Note of 96th May, 1927. As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, both these documents were published in Command Paper No. 2895 of 1927.

Mr. SAKLATVALA

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that a new situation has arisen in that in many quarters in this country a desire is expressed to revive trade relations with Russia, and that the absence of political relationships is a very serious obstacle in any genuine trade relations and will not meet the new situation?

Mr. SHINWELL

In view of recent events will it not be desirable to pour a little oil on the troubled waters?