§ 21. Sir W. DAVISONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the long outstanding claims of British creditors in respect of cash and property confiscated without compensation by the Russian Soviet Government will be borne in mind in any negotiations with that Government in respect of any new trade agreement, especially having regard to the express admission of liability for such claims contained in the declaration signed by M. Krassin which formed part of the original trade agreement of 16th March, 1921?
§ Sir J. SIMONMy hon. Friend may rest assured that all relevant considerations will be borne in mind.
§ Sir W. DAVISONDoes my right hon. Friend realise the very strong feeling in this House and the country with regard to these unfortunate people, many of 1424 whom are very poor people, who had their claims postponed again and again, and will he see that the British Government are not fooled again in any agreement by promises which are not fulfilled?
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman also consider the interests of this country by maintaining some of its export trade?
§ Sir J. SIMONI can assure both my right hon. and gallant Friend and my hon. Friend quite sincerely, that the matters that require pressing attention are receiving it.