3. Mr. J. J. Davidsonasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any statement to make regarding the appointment and mission of the hon. and learned Member for East Bristol (Sir S. Cripps)?
§ Mr. ButlerHis Majesty's Government have asked the Soviet Government for their agrément to the appointment of the hon. and learned Member for East Bristol as His Majesty's Ambassador at Moscow in succession to Sir William Seeds. No official reply has yet been received through His Majesty's Chargé ďAffaires at Moscow, but it appears from an official Soviet communiqué issued last night that the Soviet Government accept the appointment.
Mr. DavidsonCan the Under-Secretary indicate what were the reasons for not making this a clear and concise appointment at the very start, instead of trying to get around it by some small niggling way and thus creating suspicion?
§ Mr. ButlerThere was never any suggestion of any such small or niggling attitude and the appointment was always intended to be clear and concise. The 827 exact designation of the hon. and learned Gentleman's status was intended to suit his particular position.
§ Major-General Sir Alfred KnoxIs it intended in future always to appoint politicians of suitable colour?
§ Mr. ButlerIt is always our intention to select the best man.
§ Mr. ThurtleIs it not a fact that the appointment of the hon. and learned Member for East Bristol is welcomed by the whole country and that the whole country is glad Russia has accepted him?
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir.
§ Sir Patrick HannonWill the hon. and learned Member continue to be a Member of this House, or will his seat be resigned after acceptance?
§ Sir Cooper RawsonWill the hon. and learned Member for East Bristol deal with the questions of the many claims outstanding against the Soviet Government?
§ Mr. ButlerIn answer to the hon. Member for the Moseley Division of Birmingham (Sir P. Hannon), if he will put a Question down I shall be very glad to give him a detailed answer on the whole position.