HC Deb 03 March 1930 vol 236 cc9-11
18. Sir KINGSLEY WOOD

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make available, as a White Paper, the information furnished to the British Ambassador at Moscow by the Soviet Government respecting the legislation in force in the Soviet Union on religious questions; and when the Report from the British Ambassador on such matters is expected?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

I am prepared to lay as a White Paper a translation of the Soviet decree of the 8th of April last regarding religious associations. The Ambassador's Report has only reached me to-day, and I have not yet had time to consider it.

Sir K. WOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider making some statement to the House on this matter as soon as possible?

Mr. HENDERSON

I am quite prepared to consider that matter.

Colonel ASHLEY

When he issues the White Paper, will the right hon. Gentleman also let us know from what sources the British Ambassador has obtained his information?

Mr. HENDERSON

I do not want there to be any misunderstanding. I was referring to the Decree, which is a published document.

Colonel ASHLEY

When the right hon. Gentleman has perused this document, will he also tell us the sources from which the British Ambassador obtained his information?

Mr. HENDERSON

It must be obvious that anything I gay on that subject must be largely dictated by the interests of those concerned and by the interests of the public service.

Mr. COCKS

On a point of Order. Is it in order for a right hon. Gentleman to cast doubts on the veracity of the British Ambassador in Moscow?

Mr. SPEAKER

I am not aware that any doubt has been cast on his veracity.

Mr. WISE

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he will include in the White Paper information regarding the prohibition of religious teaching in schools in Australia, the United States, France, and other countries?

21. Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Secretary for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the Anglican Church in Petrograd is being used for secular purposes; and whether he will make representations to the Soviet Government on the subject?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

No, Sir. According to information which reached me on Thursday last, the Church is closed and is not used for any purpose.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is not the second step to close the Church, the first step being the forbidding of prayers?

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