§ 17. Sir W. DAVISONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any compensation has been received from the Soviet Government in respect of the property belonging to the British Government in the British mission at Vladivostock which was appropriated by the Soviet authorities in 1931?
§ Mr. EDENNo, Sir. The property in question was purchased in 1931 by a local firm, but before they could remit the 2217 purchasing money to His Majesty's Government they were forced to close down and their business was taken over by the Soviet shipping organisation Sovtorgflot. Efforts were at once made to recover the money, which Sovtorgflot admitted was standing to the credit of His Majesty's Embassy in the books of the Company. As no satisfaction could be obtained in this way, official representations were made to the Soviet Government in July last year. Further representations were made in the following September, and as recently as the 25th May last His Majesty's Chargé d'Affaires again pressed the Soviet Government for a settlement of this claim.
§ Sir W. DAVISONAre we really to understand that the money for this property is still owing to the British Government; that they have allowed it to remain owing, without insisting on it being paid, and that at the same time they are entering into negotiations with the Soviet Government?
§ Mr. EDENMy Friend will see that we have not allowed it to remain; that we are continuing and shall continue to press for payment.
§ Sir W. DAVISONWill more active steps be taken to see that money belonging to the British Government is paid?