Commander OLIVER LOCKERLAMPSON:

asked the Prime Minister whether he can grant a day before Christmas for the discussion of the Russian State's influence in relation to the troubles in China?

In view of the fact that His Majesty's new Minister to China has just reached that country, and is making a personal investigation of the situation as it presents itself in various parts of the country, I think that such a Debate would be prejudicial at the present time.

Commander LOCKER-LAMPSON:

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman exactly what further injuries and insults this country must suffer before we take action—

The hon. Member must not make a speech in the form of a question.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he thinks the recent speech delivered by the right hon. Member for Carnarvon Boroughs (Mr. Lloyd George) is very helpful?

Does the Prime Minister not think the relations at present existing between Britain and Russia are sufficiently important to warrant a day being given to their discussion before Christmas?

That rather begs the question, as far as my answer goes. My answer said that, in the view of the Government, a Debate would be prejudicial while our new Minister is meeting with various leaders in China—in Hankow and other places—so as to enable him to report. I quite agree that it is a subject worthy of discussion in this House, but the present moment I think would be inopportune.

Commander LOCKER-LAMPSON:

May we have a discussion next year, when we meet again?

I should think I may promise that with safety.