British Embassy, Moscow

6.

Captain BULLOCK
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, if it is the intention of the Government to appoint either a naval, a military, or an air attaché to the British Embassy in Moscow?

Mr. A. HENDERSON
No, Sir. It is not proposed to make such appointments.

Colonel ASHLEY
Will the right hon. Gentleman say why it is not proposed, in  view of the number of armed forces possessed by the Soviet Government?

Mr. HENDERSON
One of the reasons is that we have a little regard for economy.

Colonel ASHLEY
If that is so, why should we not withdraw our military attaché from Holland and Denmark, where there is no army at all and send them to countries where there are armies?

54.

Captain BULLOCK
asked the First Commissioner of Works when the British Embassy in Moscow will be ready for occupation; what are the terms of the lease of the new Embassy; and what rent is being paid to the Soviet Government?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Lansbury)
It is expected that the building will be ready for occupation by January next. The premises have been taken for a period of 20 years from June last, with an option in favour of His Majesty's Government to determine every fifth year. The rent is £4,500 per annum, in addition to an initial lump sum payment of £20,000.

Captain BULLOCK
Would the right hon. Gentleman state if that sum includes rates and taxes?

Mr. LANSBURY
If the hon. and gallant Member will give me notice I will inquire.

Sir ASSHETON POWNALL
Will the right hon. Gentleman consider having another possible break in the lease, as unfortunately it was necessary in 1927 to break the lease of our premises in Moscow?

Mr. LANSBURY
We are much more sensible than they were in 1927.