HC Deb 05 December 1911 vol 32 cc1202-3
Mr. HUNT

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, whether the opportunity promised for discussing the Arbitration Treaty with the United States will be given before the Treaty is signed; and can he now say whether, contrary to the statement of the Prime Minister at the Guildhall, the Americans have refused to allow all questions, including those of honour or territory, to go to arbitration?

Mr. ACLAND

As was stated in reply to a question from the hon. Member for Coventry on the 6th of July last, the Treaty will be presented to Parliament before ratification takes place. It is at present under the consideration of the United States Government.

Mr. HUNT

Will the hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the question?

Mr. ACLAND

I think the answer covers the points that are raised. The Treaty will be presented to Parliament before ratification takes place, and it is now under consideration in the United States Government.

Mr. HUNT

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether, contrary to the statement of the Prime Minister at the Guildhall, the Americans have refused to allow all the questions, including those of honour or territory, to go to arbitration?

Mr. ACLAND

How can one say that when the matter is still under the consideration of that Government.

Mr. HUNT

Have not the American Senate already refused?

Mr. ACLAND

It is still under their consideration, and we have not received their reply to it.

Mr. HUNT

Has the hon. Gentleman received any reply from the American Senate?