HC Deb 26 February 1930 vol 235 cc2226-7
29. Captain CR00KSHANK

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any members of the British Embassy to Russia have yet visited any cities other than Moscow; and, if so, on how many occasions?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

So far as I am aware, since their arrival in the Soviet Union, the members of the Embassy have been occupied at the seat of Government, but the movements of the staff of His Majesty's missions abroad are, as the hon. and gallant Member is well aware, within the discretion of His Majesty's Ambassadors and Ministers.

Captain CROOKSHANK

Will the right hon. Gentleman instruct our Ambassador to see that his staff goes into the outlying parts of Russia to investigate the question of religious persecution?

Mr. HENDERSON

I have already said that the movement of the staff is at the discretion of the Ambassador.

Mr. STEPHEN

Has the right hon. Gentleman any reason to suppose that there is any difficulty being put in the way of the members of the Embassy in Russia?

Viscountess ASTOR

Would the right hon. Gentleman advise the staff to attend the Baptist chapels while in Russia?

Mr. HENDERSON

I believe too much in religious liberty to make that interference.

Viscountess ASTOR

Am I not right in thinking that the right hon. Gentleman also believes in religion?