HC Deb 18 April 1923 vol 162 cc2095-6W
Mr. MACLEAN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the camps for Russian refugees in Egypt, Cyprus, Serbia, Touzla, and Malta are still in existence; at whose expense are they still being maintained; and whether Great Britain is at present in any way contributing towards the Maintenance of Russian refugees, either directly through the League of Nations or through any other channel?

Mr. McNEILL

I cannot say whether the camps which the hon. Member mentions are still in existence or not, hut in any case His Majesty's Government have no longer any administrative and financial responsibility for Russian refugees. This responsibility was assumed by the League of Nations as from 1st May, 1922, and a grant of £150,000 was made by His Majesty's Government to the League in consideration of this fact.

Mr. TREVELYAN

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether there is any expenditure in the Estimates this year for refugees from Russia in the East or elsewhere; and, if so, under what Vote it appears?

Major BOYD - CARPENTER

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative, and the second does not therefore arise.