HC Deb 24 January 1940 vol 356 cc550-1
3. Mr. Dobbie

asked the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to issue a White Paper dealing with the negotiations for a treaty between His Majesty's Government and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics prior to the breakdown of same; and whether he will issue such Paper at an early date?

The Prime Minister

I regret that I am not yet in a position to give a definite date for the issue of this Paper.

Mr. T. Smith

Can the Prime Minister say what is delaying the issue of the White Paper, in view of the general public interest?

The Prime Minister

Yes, Sir. The Paper has required a good deal of preparation, and other Governments have to be consulted.

Mr. Dobbie

Is the Prime Minister in a position to promise us an early issue of the White Paper?

The Prime Minister

I said that I was not able to fix a definite date. We are doing all we can to facilitate publication.

Mr. Mander

Can the Prime Minister give an assurance that the delay is not being caused by the fact that the documents are being edited in any way, and that the full facts will be given?

The Prime Minister

That is so.

8. Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of her unprovoked aggression on Finland, His Majesty's Government will now break off relations with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics?

The Prime Minister

The decision whether or not to break off relations with the Soviet Government is one that would require most careful consideration in all its aspects, and is not to be dealt with satisfactorily by means of Question and Answer.

Sir A. Knox

Would not the course suggested be logically and morally right, and is it not likely to be politically sound, as giving encouragement to some of the wavering neutrals?