§ 13. Sir W. DAVISONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether questions regarding freedom of religion and famine relief were discussed with the representatives of the Soviet Government before they were admitted to membership of the League of Nations; and what is the present position with regard to these matters between the Soviet Government and Foreign Powers?
§ Mr. EDENThe British delegation at Geneva took part in no discussions with the Soviet representatives prior to the entry of the Soviet Government into the League of Nations on the subjects mentioned by my hon. Friend in the first 1500 part of his Question. I am not in a position to say whether these subjects have been discussed between the Soviet Government and Foreign Powers.
§ Sir W. DAVISONHaving regard to the prominent part which the British Government take at Geneva, surely the questions of religious freedom and famine relief, which are questions of such great importance, must have been raised? Is my right hon. Friend aware that these questions were specially raised by the American Government, and that they received a satisfactory reply?
§ Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHTIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is a good deal of exaggeration about this matter; and may I ask him whether he will consider the advantage of extending his journeys to this jurisdiction to get personal acquaintance with the facts?
§ Mr. EDENThe only question with which His Majesty's delegation was concerned was the entry of the Soviet Government into the League.
§ Sir A. KNOXDid the Soviet Government comply with Article 23 of the Covenant of the League of Nations?
§ Mr. EDENThe Soviet Government, in applying for membership, clearly indicated that it would undertake all the obligations which other members of the League have undertaken.
§ Sir A. KNOXAre the members of the League satisfied that the Soviet Government have complied with Article 23, which demands that they should give fair and humane treatment to their labour?