8. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any protest has been addressed to the Soviet Government with regard to the measures which have been adopted under the direction of the Soviet State Planning Commission to induce foreign workmen to obtain and inform the Soviet authorities of the industrial secrets of their employers; and whether, in this connection, his attention has been called to the specific invitation addressed to British Communists by the organisation known as the Vanguard Factory Workers, requesting them to communicate technical information to the Soviet Union?
Mr. A. HENDERSONI have seen a report in the London Press of the 20th of May in the sense suggested by the hon. and gallant Member. His Majesty's Government have, however, received no complaints from British industrialists, and no question of protest, therefore, arises.
Sir F. HALLDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think this is a rather invidious action to be taken by any responsible Government? Does not he think in the circumstances that it would be advisable for him to communicate with the Soviet Government in the matter and find out whether or not what is stated in the question is true?
Mr. HENDERSONI have informed the House that I am not proceeding to deal with other countries in that way.
Sir F. HALLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many Members on this side of the House are very dissatisfied?