British Subjects (Passports)

3.

Sir K. WOOD
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, consequent upon the exchange of ambassadors with Soviet Russia, it is now proposed, in the case of applicants for passports desiring to proceed to Russia, to withdraw the general warning that such applicants enter the territories of the Soviet Union at their own risk?

10.

Mr. MILLS
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if it is now proposed to withdraw the prohibitive notice hitherto tendered to business men and others who contemplated visiting Russia, in view of the resumption of diplomatic relations with the Union of Soviet Republics?

Mr. A. HENDERSON
As a result of the resumption of full diplomatic relations with the Government of the Soviet Union, instructions have been issued to the effect that the passports of British subjects desiring to proceed to the Union can now be endorsed for that country: the prohibitive notice in question has been withdrawn.

Sir K. WOOD
Do I understand that the right hon. Gentleman has satisfied himself that people will be able to enter  Russia with perfect liberty and freedom and without the apprehension of any harm coming to them?

Mr. MILLS
May I ask whether there is in the records of the Foreign Office any instance of any business man who has gone there who has not come through with perfect safety to himself?

Sir K. WOOD
May I ask for a reply to my question?

Mr. HENDERSON
I do not think there is anything to reply to.

Sir K. WOOD
Perhaps I may put it in another way. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is considerable apprehension, having regard to things that have taken place in Russia, and has he satisfied himself—

Mr. KIRKWOOD
Before the right hon. Gentleman replies, I would like to ask him if it is not the case that the relations between us and Russia never were more friendly than they are to-day? Next question?

Sir K. WOOD
May I ask for a reply-to my question?

HON. MEMBERS
Answer!