§ 1. Dr. CHAPPLEasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any agreement has been come to with France in the direction of a Conference on the New Hebrides question; and, if so, will representatives of Australia and New Zealand be invited to take part?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir Edward Grey)It is hoped that a Conference will meet shortly. The Governments of Australia and New Zealand have not been invited to send representatives, but, as stated in the 305 reply given by the Secretary of State for the Colonies to the hon. Member on 4th March, an assurance has been given to those Governments that they shall be informed before any new arrangements are entered into.
§ Dr. CHAPPLEWill there be any opportunity for discussion in this House, and will the right hon. Gentleman lay Papers?
§ Sir E. GREYI could not give a promise at this stage as to laying Papers.
§ Dr. CHAPPLEWill the right hon. Gentleman give a day for discussion?
§ Sir E. GREYI cannot give a promise at this stage. I do not want in my reply to indicate there will not be discussion, but I cannot give an undertaking.