HC Deb 10 July 1939 vol 349 cc1783-4
6 Mr. Dalton

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now make any further statement regarding the negotiations between His Majesty's Government and the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics?

7. Mr. Vyvyan Adams

asked the Prime Minister what stage has now been reached in the Anglo-Russian negotiations for a common front against aggression?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)

His Majesty's Government and the French Government have sent further joint instructions to their representatives at Moscow, who have now had two further conversations with M. Molotov. Certain further suggestions have been made by the Soviet Government which are now under consideration, and on other points we have not yet received their reply.

21. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the Prime Minister whether, with a view to reassuring certain anxieties felt by Finland and the Baltic States, he will make it plain that in any arrangement His Majesty's Government may enter into with France and Russia in fulfilment of our guarantee to Poland and Rumania, there is no intention of interfering in any way in the internal affairs of the countries referred to, but that the objectives of any such arrangement will be the defence of their vital interests, the protection of their freedom and independence, and the maintenance of their neutrality?

9. Mr. Quibell

asked the Prime Minister whether he can give an assurance that no sovereign State contrary to its will shall be included in any non-aggression pact entered into by His Majesty's Government?

30. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether it is the policy of His Majesty's Government that any agreements to resist aggression to which His Majesty's Government is a party, will not impair the independence and freedom of the Baltic States?

The Prime Minister

It is the general policy of His Majesty's Government to maintain respect for the integrity' of all sovereign States. In particular, they are aware of the desire of Finland and the Baltic States to preserve their independence and neutrality, and as this is also the objective of His Majesty's Government they will naturally take full account of these considerations in the present negotiations.

48. Mr. V. Adams

asked the Prime Minister whether he will arrange to despatch the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to Moscow?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir.

Mr. Adams

Might not the presence in Moscow of some Cabinet Minister help to satisfy Oliver Twist?

Mr. Lipson

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider sending the right hon. Member for Epping (Mr. Churchill) to Moscow on behalf of His Majesty's Government? [Laughter] I put this perfectly seriously. Does he not think that such action on the part of the Government would have a very good effect both in this country and in Europe?

Mr. Thurtle

Has not the right hon. Gentleman already sent the right hon. Member for Epping (Mr. Churchill) to Coventry?