§ Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether steps are taken to see that among the ex-Russian officers engaged or enlisted to go to Russia noted counter-revolutionists are not included; and whether it is explained to those that go that their engagement by His Majesty's Government is largely a matter of charity, and that while so engaged they are bound in honour not to interfere in Russian politics, and will be discharged if found so doing?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONRussian officers serving under the auspices of the British Government in North Russia are plainly given to understand that their object is to restore order and fight the Germans. They are required to give a solemn undertaking that they will not engage in politics of any description, and that they will submit to discipline as in the British Army. While it is impossible to ascertain the political convictions of every officer, the greatest care is taken to ensure that none are sent who are not honestly prepared to serve under the above conditions. There is no question of charity in our relations with brave men, many of whom in an earlier period of the War fought gallantly for the Allied cause, and who are still prepared to sacrifice their lives for their country.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the Russian officers who temporarily seized or imprisoned the Russian Government at Archangel had been taken to Russia by His Majesty's Government; whether they were in the pay of His Majesty's Government; and, if so, what disciplinary action has been taken in regard to them?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe answer to the first and second parts of my hon. and gallant Friend's question is in the negative, and the last part does not, therefore, arise.