§ Major NEWMANasked the President of the Local Government Board whether, under the authority of his Board, there is being paid 12s. 6d. for the wife and 2s. 6d. for each child of several thousands of Russian subjects who have recently elected to be repatriated; is it intended that this money shall b recovered from any responsible authority in Russia; and, if not, for how long will the ratepayers be responsible for the charge?
Mr. FISHERThe allowances referred to are being paid to the necessitous dependants of Russians who returned to Russia. in compliance with the terms of the Anglo-Russian Military Service Convention. His Majesty's Government have agreed to provide the necessary funds on the understanding that the sums expended will be recovered from Russia at a later date. In the meantime the whole cost will be charged to the Exchequer.