There have been several questions in the House of Commons
this week on the subject of the Anglo-Soviet Conference. It has been known for some time past that the negotiations were difficult and intricate ; but we strongly deprecate any attempt to sabotage the Con- ference before even letting it finish its deliberations. There is no question of supporting the Bolsheviks. It is simply one of securing something for English bond- holders, instead of nothing, as will certainly be the case if the Conference breaks down. But far more important, in our opinion, is the hope of opening up Anglo-Russian trade. A comprehensive commercial treaty between this country and Russia would be of the very greatest value. On this subject we publish what we cannot help feeling is an almost conclusive article on the value and importance of the restoration of Russia as a great trading and producing community, within the comity of nations. Much as we dislike the Bolshevik regime, we should strongly oppose forcing it back into isolation. There is an admirable precedent for the negotiation of a commercial treaty with an arbitrary foreign government in Mr. Cobden's treaty with Napoleon HI. in 1860.
Previous page
