§ 24. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if the diplomatic documents relative to the proposed attack on Russia in 1940 can be now inspected by Members of Parliament.
§ Mr. MayhewI have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to my hon. Friend on this subject on 19th November.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that this refusal to give hon. Members access to these documents makes it a very difficult task for anyone who wishes to write a history of the time—including the right hon. Member for Woodford (Mr. Churchill)—and would he reconsider the decision?
§ Mr. MayhewIt is not a refusal so much as a doubt whether sufficient interest exists—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] The Swedish White Paper is, of course, available to hon. Members and to those who are interested. We have nothing to hide in this. In wars we have to make plans for every possible eventuality. After consideration, this idea of bombing Baku was stopped, and I really do not think that there is any good to be done in raking it up now.
§ Mr. HughesIf there is nothing to hide, why is the information refused?