HC Deb 21 July 1913 vol 55 cc1675-6
2. Mr. NOEL BUXTON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Enos-Midia frontier, as fixed by the Treaty of London, had the express sanction of the Powers; whether its violation is therefore an insult to the Powers, similar to that which they remedied by force in the case of Montenegro; and whether he can state what steps are proposed by the Powers to obtain respect for their decision?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Acland)

The Enos-Midia frontier was fixed by a treaty signed by Turkey and the Allied Balkan States in London. That treaty was made under the auspices of the Powers when they were mediating between Turkey and the Balkan States. The Turkish Government till within the last few days more than once disclaimed the intention of violating the new frontier and strong representations were made to them by the Powers to dissuade them from doing so. In view of the latest information in the Press the subject must occupy the attention of the Powers, but I cannot state what action they may agree and decide to take.

Mr. N. BUXTON

May I ask whether His Majesty's Government adhere to the principle laid down by Lord Salisbury that no territory, once ceded by the Turkish Government should be resubmitted to Turkish rule?

Mr. ACLAND

My hon. Friend had better put that question on the Paper, and ask my right hon. Friend.

Mr. WHITEHOUSE

May I ask whether action is being immediately taken by Great Britain in common with the other Powers?

Mr. ACLAND

The matter is being discussed by the Ambassadors this afternoon.

Mr. MORRELL

May I ask whether the Turks 'have actually reached Adrianople?

Mr. ACLAND

I cannot say.