HC Deb 14 November 1916 vol 87 cc550-2
7. Mr. C. WASON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been directed to a dispatch from M. Venizelos to Principal Ronald Burrows, King's College; and if, in view of the facts there set forth, coupled with the occupation of fresh territory by Bulgarians, dispatching of fresh troops to Berlin, and persecution of Greek patriots, he will consider with the Allied Powers what further steps it is necessary to take for the protection of M. Venizelos and his friends?

Lord R. CECIL

The answer to both parts of the question is in the affirmative.

8. Mr. ASHLEY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Government still maintain official relations with King Constantine's Government; if so, in what districts of Greece does His Majesty's Government recognise that King Constantine has jurisdiction; and will he state what amount of official recognition has been accorded by the Allies to the Provisional Government under M. Venizelos at Salonika?

Lord R. CECIL

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative as regards the Allied Governments, including His Majesty's Government. As regards the second part, the situation changes from day to day, but it may roughly be said that M. Venizelos' authority exists in New Greece and the islands, whereas the Government at Athens retains jurisdiction over Old Greece. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to previous statements which have been made on the subject. The Government of M. Venizelos is treated by the Allies as the de facto authority in the districts where it is established.

Mr. ASHLEY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what advantage there is in continuing the official recognition of the Government of King Constantine?

Lord R. CECIL

That is rather a large question to be answered in reply to a supplementary question.

Mr. R. McNEILL

Has the extent of the recognition accorded to M. Venizelos' Government been notified to him?

Lord R. CECIL

As I understand so, certainly.

Mr. BILLING

How many Governments in Greece do the Government propose to recognise?

Lord R. CECIL

There is only one Government in Greece.

HON. MEMBERS

There are two!

Major HUNT

Does the Government here not recognise two Governments?

Lord R. CECIL

I do not understand that M. Venizelos regards himself as revolting from the Government of the King.