HC Deb 15 March 1932 vol 263 cc177-8
40. Mr. MANDER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Government will be prepared to reconsider the treaty under which this country undertook not to fortify Hong Kong in the event, of the other treaties signed at Washington in February, 1922, and the Pact of Paris being broken?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Eden)

I am not prepared to say what policy His Majesty's Government would adopt in the circumstances contemplated by the hon. Member.

Mr. MANDER

In view of the statement made by Mr. Stimson with reference to the fortification of Guam in similar circumstances, is it not very important that His Majesty's Government should make up their mind rapidly on the matter?

Mr. EDEN

It is not a question of the Government making up their mind. Since we are members of the League, this matter is now, for us, sub judice.

Mr. HANNON

Has not this House full confidence in the present Foreign Secretary in regard to dealing with this matter?