HC Deb 05 July 1937 vol 326 cc11-3
7. Captain Ramsay

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many countries, members of the League of Nations, still refuse the diplomatic recognition of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics?

Mr. Eden

According to the information in my possession, the number of foreign countries, members of the League of Nations, which refuse diplomatic recognition to the Soviet Union, is 25.

Captain Ramsay

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the reason for refusing recognition in every case is the subversive propaganda which is carried on by Soviet Russia whenever diplomatic recognition is granted?

Mr. Eden

I can only answer for His Majesty's Government, and not for the 25 members of the League.

Captain Ramsay

In view of the fact that all these countries are members of the League of Nations, would His Majesty's Government consider whether they could take any action through the League of Nations Council?

Mr. Eden

There is another question on the Paper.

8. Captain Ramsay

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the Third International is still spending large sums of money in Great Britain on subversive propaganda of every kind; and, in view of the fact that His Majesty's Government now hold the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics responsible for the actions of the Third International, will he now take vigorous steps to induce them to refrain from this violation of their undertakings?

Mr. Eden

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply which I gave on 23rd June to a similar question asked by my hon. Friend the Member for Central Newcastle-on-Tyne (Mr. Denville).

Captain Ramsay

Can I have an answer to the question as to whether the Soviet Government are held responsible for the actions of the Third International; and whether in view of the body of opinion in the League of Nations Council, and the evidence in this country of Soviet propaganda, the right hon. Gentleman will take any action which will put a stop to this violation of their undertakings?

Mr. Eden

The hon. and gallant Member talks of evidence. If he has any evidence and will submit it to me, I will consider it.

Captain Ramsay

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Under-Secretary in a reply to me admitted that there was evidence?

Mr. Gallacher

If the hon. and gallant Member gets this information and submits it to the right hon. Gentleman, will he also submit it to me?