Mr. BALFOURMay I ask a question of the Prime Minister? My right hon. Friend, the Member for St. George's (Mr. Lyttelton), asked yesterday whether it would be possible in the public interest to make any statement with regard to foreign affairs. The Prime Minister requested that the question might be deferred to to-day. I do not know whether even to-day it would be convenient or proper for an answer to be given, but if an answer can be given I am sure that the House would be grateful.
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)No. The matter to which the light hon. Gentleman refers is engaging the serious attention of the Government. Diplomatic communications at this moment are in progress. I do not think that I can properly say more at this moment. Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will renew his inquiry on Thursday.
§ Mr. DAVID MASONMay I ask the Prime Minister a question of which I have given him private notice? With regard to the action of Germany in Morocco, is not it the case that, under the Act of Algeciras the Inspector-General is to report to the Diplomatic Body as to taking measures for the security of the persons of foreigners, and, under Article 9, in the event of complaints, the Diplomatic Body was requested to make inquiry and draw up a report. Have such complaints been made?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is not a question that ought to be put in such a way. If the hon. Member will put it down on paper proper inquiries will be made.