HC Deb 16 November 1931 vol 259 cc478-9
14. Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when he expects to be in a position to inform the House as to the attitude of the Soviet Government with regard to the representations made by the late Foreign Secretary, in July last, to the Soviet Ambassador that it was now necessary for a concrete offer to be made by the Soviet Government for the settlement of the debts and claims of British nationals?

18. Mr. MARJORIBANKS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any negotiations are in progress or contemplation with regard to the settlement of Russian debts to British nationals?

Mr. EDEN

The Soviet representative has already been reminded that His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom are awaiting a communication from his Government. My right hon. Friend will renew this reminder, if necessary.

Sir W. DAVISON

Will the Foreign Secretary remember that the question of the settlement of the debts of British nationals was one of the conditions of the resumption of diplomatic relations?

Mr. EDEN

My right hon. Friend is certainly not unmindful of the present unsatisfactory state of the debts question.

Captain Sir WILLIAM BRASS

Can the Under-Secretary say how long it will be before he reminds them again?

Commander LOCKER-LAMPSON

Will the hon. Member set up a new committee, seeing that this is a new House of Commons?

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Is the hon. Member aware that the mere continuation of the policy of the last Government will not satisfy this House?