§ 20. Sir K. WOODasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he proposes before the end of the Session to make a statement concerning the progress of the investigation which is being made into questions relating to Soviet propaganda and other matters?
§ Mr. DALTONThis investigation has not yet been completed. I have, therefore, nothing to add to the answer given by my right hon. Friend on the 14th at July to the right hon. Gentleman, the Member for Wood Green (Mr. G. Locker-Lampson) and the hon. and gallant Member for Dulwich (Sir F. Hall).
§ Sir K. WOODWill the hon. Gentleman say why it is impossible at any rate to make some interim statement so that the House can be satisfied that some steps are being taken?
§ Mr. DALTONThe investigation, as I have informed the right hon. Gentleman, is still continuing. My right hon. Friend in previous answers has stated that when the investigation is complete the Government will decide what action, if any, is to be taken and will inform the House of such action at the first opportunity.
§ Sir K. WOODIs the hon. Gentleman not aware that this investigation has 14 been going on for months? Why cannot some report be made to the House?
§ Mr. MARJORIBANKSHas not the investigation already made given the Government—[Interruption.]
§ Mr. SMITHERSIs it not a fact that the delay in settling debts and claims is a policy of sheer humbug on the part of the Soviet?