asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the categorical denial by M. Tchitcherin, commissary for Foreign Affairs in Moscow, that the Soviet Government have done anything which could damage the foreign trade of China with Great Britain; and whether he intends to take advantage of M. Tchitcherin's offer to discuss any question at issue between the two countries and of his declaration that he is ready to come to an agreement with any State in order to promote the cause of world peace?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and to the second in the negative.

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether a Note has been addressed to the Russian Government on the subject of recent events in China?

No such Note has been sent, but I must reserve to His Majesty's Government full liberty to take whatever action they may think required.

May I ask that, before the Government take any drastic step, we may have all the facts placed before us in this House?

His Majesty's Government must be carried on. Although I am anxious always to proceed with the full knowledge of the House of Commons where it is possible, and with their support, it is not compatible with the duties of my office that I shall under-take that all actions shall be paralysed in an emergency until this House has been consulted. I can only add that perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman might have been better satisfied with my answer if he had been able to put the fourth question which stood in his name on the Paper. That question has not been answered.

In view of the declaration of the Government as to Russian relations, made in the King's Speech, can we be assured that, before there is a, departure from that line of policy, the House will have an opportunity of discussing it?

I hope that no questions will be put on the assumption that the Government have under consideration proposals to alter their line of policy. That would be a mistake. But the situation is of a character that needs to be carefully watched from day to day, and the Government must be free to act as is necessary for the protection of British interests. I think the undertaking which I ought to give, and will give, is that, if there be any change, I will make the earliest possible declaration to the House of Commons on the subject.

Arising out of the right hon. Gentleman's reply, is it not necessary to watch very carefully the bellicose utterances of members of the Cabinet on this question, since there may be a universal disaster arising out of such foolish talk?

Foolish talk is not confined to one quarter. All that I would do is to make an appeal to everyone, in circumstances which are critical, to refrain from any language of any kind that could make them more dangerous than they are.

Tell the Galloper, then.