HC Deb 09 April 1930 vol 237 cc2140-1
61. Sir BERTRAM FALLE

asked the First Commissioner of Works if he can give any details as to the house provided for His Majesty's Ambassador in Moscow; if the house is a leasehold, and for what period of years, or a freehold; and what is to be the yearly rent or purchase price?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)

Negotiations for the lease of a house for His Majesty's Ambassador in Moscow are at present in progress, but the terms of tenure have not yet been finally settled.

Sir B. FALLE

On what grounds is the amount of £10,000 being spent on this house before any agreement has been come to?

Mr. LANSBURY

There is no money being spent on the house. We are taking a Vote for that sum of money in the event of the money being used.

Lieut. - Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL

Will the right hon. Gentleman, previous to any money being expended, send the Permanent Secretary over there to have a look round and to advise the right hon. Gentleman?

Mr. LANSBURY

I am not at all sure that it would not do the hon. Baronet a very great deal of good to go and inspect it himself.

Sir F. HALL

I have been there many a time.

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