HC Deb 06 March 1940 vol 358 cc356-7
2. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether he is now able to state the result of his consultations with the French Government on the subject of the publication of a White Paper on the Anglo-Soviet negotiations; and whether, in view of the fact that this was promised on 13th December, he can now name a date for issue?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)

Further consultation has now taken place with the French Government, and, in agreement with them, we have reached a decision not to publish these documents at present.

Mr. Mander

Is it the intention to publish them at a later date?

The Prime Minister

I will confine myself to saying that it is not our intention to publish them at present.

Mr. Kirkwood

Would these documents be detrimental to Britain or to Russia?

Mr. Mander

In view of the fact that the Prime Minister gave a definite promise before Christmas that the White Paper would be published, why was it necessary to go back on that decision?

The Prime Minister

Because we have reviewed the question since, and, in the light of joint considerations, we have changed our minds.