§ MR. WILLIAM REDMOND (Clare, E.). I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the New Hebrides Convention was agreed to without the assent first being obtained of the Governments of New Zealand and the Australian Commonwealth; and, if this be so, if he can state why His Majesty's Government did not consult with and obtain the opinion of Australasian statesmen on a matter so vitally affecting Australasia.
§ MR. CHURCHILLThe New Hebrides Convention was not signed until the views of the Governments of Australia and New Zealand upon it had been consulted and their acquiescence, albeit reluctant, obtained. But long before the draft was even provisionally concluded the Secretary of State had been in constant and detailed communication with the Colonial Governments concerned; and during the protracted negotiations which have taken place, no effort has been spared and no resource neglected to secure the permanent interests of these Colonies, and 1100 the largest possible measure of their claims.
§ MR. WILLIAM REDMONDIs the House to understand that the Government of New Zealand, as well as the Australian Government, acquiesced in this Convention, or is it not the fact that they protested against it?
§ *MR. CHURCHILL"Their acquiescence, albeit reluctant," is a statement which corresponds with the facts.
§ SIR GILBERT PARKER (Gravesend)When will the Papers relating to the Convention be laid on the Table of the House?
§ *MR. CHURCHILLIt is the first time that the matter has been pressed upon us, but I will consult the Secretary of State and find out what Papers can be laid upon the Table of the House, and, if so, when.
§ MR. WILLIAM REDMONDCannot information also be got at the same time for the use of Members as to the views expressed by the Australasian Governments on this matter?
§ *MR. CHURCHILLThat is a question for the Foreign Office, I think. I will ask the Secretary of State.