§ 5. Mr. MORRELLasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether an undertaking was given last year to the Russian Government that the British representative in Persia should apply, in co-operation with the representative of Russia, for an option for a trans-Persian railway when asked to do so; whether the particulars of this undertaking have 924 been published; whether any application for such an option has yet been made; and how the matter now stands?
§ Mr. ACLANDThe undertaking to which the hon. Member doubtless refers was given not last year, but in October, 1912. Its terms are set forth in Persia No. 1 (1913), No. 345. No application has as yet been made for any option, as the question is still under discussion between the two Governments.
§ Dr. ADDISONWill an opportunity be given to discuss this important question before the Government comes to any decision?
§ Mr. ACLANDWell, Sir, I should hope so, before any final decision, in view of the importance of the matter: In any case I shall see that the wishes of my hon. Friend are conveyed to my right hon. Friend.
§ Mr. MORRELLDo we understand that no proceeding is now going on in connection with the trans-Persian Railway?
§ Mr. ACLANDThe question is still under discussion. The only undertaking has been published in the White Paper that has been laid.
§ Mr. MORRELLWhat has happened to the Société d'Etude, which are considering this question—has it reported?
§ Mr. ACLANDI do not think it would be right at Question Time to give an account of the operations of the Société, but if my hon. Friend puts down a question, I will see what more information I can give.
§ Dr. ADDISONIs there any undertaking, direct or indirect, that this Government will participate at all?
§ Mr. ACLANDI do not think so; the general discussion is still going on.
§ Dr. ADDISONAre we to understand that we are entirely free from any commitments in the matter?