HC Deb 16 November 1916 vol 87 c944
11. Sir E. CORNWALL

asked the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs whether he can give the. House any information with regard to the activities of the Greek Royalist troops; and whether satisfactory assurances are being received from the Athens Government on the subject?

Lord R. CECIL

According to the decrees issued by the King of Greece, the Greek Army is to be reduced to a peace footing, and the Third and Fourth Army Corps are to be removed from Thessaly to the Morea. The dispositions necessary to effect this movement were to have been initiated on the 12th instant, and I have not heard that any delay has occurred. I would add that the Allied Governments are at present considering the best means whereby all possibility of armed conflict between the Greek forces and the forces which have joined M. Venizelos can be avoided.

Mr. PEMBERTON BILLING

In the event of an armed conflict taking place, which side does this Government propose to support?

Lord R. CECIL

Obviously that is a question of which notice should be given.

Mr. ASHLEY

Did not King Constantine's Government promise months ago to put their Army on a peace footing and why have they not done so?

Lord R. CECIL

I am not sure that my hon. Friend is right as to the date, but perhaps he will give me notice.

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