HC Deb 24 March 1930 vol 237 cc17-8
32. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the issue of "Pravda," the official organ of the Soviet Government, of the 17th instant, stating that the Soviet Government never has, and never will, negotiate with anyone regarding the activities of the Comintern; and whether, in view of the express terms of the treaty between this country and Soviet Russia, he will take up this matter immediately with the Soviet Ambassador and ask for the explanation of his Government and report the same to the House?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

No, Sir; but I have seen a similar article which appeared in "Pravda" of the 18th March. As regards the last parts of the question, I am not disposed to give undue attention to articles in "Pravda," which is not the "official organ of the Soviet Government," as the right hon. Gentleman alleges.

Sir K. WOOD

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is another breach of the Agreement; and how long is he going to submit to being humiliated in this way?

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Will the right hon. Gentleman state the evidence on which he says that this is not the official journal of the Soviet Government?

Sir A. KNOX

Is not "Pravda" the official organ of the Communist party, which is really supreme in Russia?