HC Deb 07 March 1945 vol 408 cc2001-2
16. Sir H. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the countries which are outside the scope of the second part of Article 5 of the Anglo-Russian Treaty of 26th May, 1942.

Mr. Eden

As is made plain in the Treaty, the Article in question will apply to the post-war period, and all countries will come within its scope except Germany and perhaps certain of her associates in Europe.

Sir H. Williams

I take it that Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia come within the scope?

Mr. Eden

It applies to the post-war period, that is to say, the period after the peace. If my hon. Friend wishes to know the Soviet Government's attitude to Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, that is another question.

Sir H. Williams

When the treaty was signed, were not these countries nominally independent although occupied by Germany?

Mr. Eden

They were not so regarded by the Soviet Government, and that has many times been made plain.