Sir HENRY DALZIELasked the Secretary for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to an interview with the United States Ambassador to Great Britain, in the course of which he is reported to have expressed the opinion that the general political conditions in this country at present are the same as those that prevailed in France before the Revolution; and whether he will ascertain from the United States Ambassador whether this interview is accurately described?
§ Mr. LEEIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in the original report of the interview referred to no such opinion as that attributed by the hon. Member to the American Ambassador as a matter of fact appears?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI think the answer I have to read will be found to be a reply to that question also. The attention of the 193 Secretary of State had not been called to the report referred to until my hon. Friend sent him a copy. He is sure it is not true.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEDid the United States Ambassador express the view that the Ministers at present in power were equal in capacity to the French Ministers of that day?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe Secretary of State is assured that the statement is not true.
Sir H. DALZIELIn view of its importance, I shall call attention to this matter on the first available opportunity.