§ Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the terms of reference to the Opium Commission have yet been adjusted; and, if so, whether he can communicate them to the House?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir Edward Grey)His Majesty's Government have not as yet received from the Netherlands Government, who issued the invitations to the Opium Conference, a definite programme of the subjects to be discussed; and they are therefore not in a position to draw up the necessary instructions for the guidance of the British delegates.
§ Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSONCan the right hon. Gentleman say when it is expected the programme will be received?
§ Sir E. GREYI am hoping it will be received as soon as possible, but I cannot say.
Mr. KINGIs it definitely determined that the Conference will meet on 1st December, or has that date been postponed?
§ Sir E. GREYPerhaps the hon. Member will give me notice of that question.