HC Deb 02 June 1931 vol 253 cc26-7
60. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Soviet representatives on the Anglo-Soviet Debt Committee have now defined their attitude to the various categories of British claims; what is the nature of their decision; and what action has been taken with reference to the representations which have been made by Sub-committee B to the Main Committee?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

The position in Sub-committee B was discussed at a meeting of the Main Committee yesterday, when a memorandum of the British views was handed to the Soviet representatives. The Main Committee will report to the plenipotentiaries as soon as the considered observations of the Soviet representatives have been received. A meeting of Sub-committee C will he held shortly.

Sir W. DAVISON

Can the right hon. Gentleman explain the meaning of the phrase used by the Under-Secretary lately when he said that the Russian representatives had not yet defined their attitude? Do they admit liability in respect of these claims for cash, etc., or not?

Mr. HENDERSON

I cannot add anything to the statement I have just made. We are waiting for a statement which they have promised to give us in writing, and until that has been received and considered I cannot add to what I have already said.

Sir W. DAVISON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when I may put down a question again—next Monday?

Mr. HENDERSON

No, I am afraid that a question next Monday will not help very much.