HC Deb 01 October 1941 vol 374 cc558-9
16. Mr. Horabin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will inform the Finnish Government that this country will not hold itself morally responsible for the future of Finland if Finland does not come to a settlement with Russia?

Mr. Eden

Yes, Sir. His Majesty's Government have already addressed a warning to the Finnish Government through the Norwegian Minister at Hel-singfors to the effect that, if the Finnish Government persist in invading purely Russian territory, His Majesty's Government will be forced to treat Finland as an open enemy, not only while the war lasts but also when peace comes to be made.

Mr. Mander

Has any reply been received to that, and is there any time limit?

Mr. Eden

No reply has been received.

Mr. Pickthorn

Can my right hon. Friend explain what meaning he attaches to the words about this country holding itself morally responsible for another one, and, if he attaches any meaning, can he give us an assurance that we will not hold ourselves morally responsible for the future of any other country?

Mr. Eden

That phrase was used in the Question. My answer was what I stated.

Mr. Mander

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider imposing a time limit so that the matter will not drag on?

Mr. Eden

I should be grateful if my hon. Friend would leave me to handle these negotiations in my own way.