§ 20. Mr. OUTHWAITEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to the statement that M. Briand, has informed the Greek Minister in Paris that Italy has strongly opposed the inclusion of Greece in the Alliance; can he state the grounds for this opposition; and whether it has the support of His Majesty's Government?
§ Lord R. CECILI have seen a notice in the Press in the sense of the first part of the question. I have no information in regard to the second part, and the third part does not arise.
§ Mr. OUTHWAITEMay we take it that, at any rate on one point, Italy did oppose the entrance of Greece into the Alliance?
§ Sir E. CARSONMay I inquire whether the Noble Lord thinks it is to the advantage of this country that these questions should be asked?
§ Lord R. CECILI am very much obliged to my right hon. and learned Friend for that question. Speaking on behalf of the Government I think these questions are very undesirable.
§ Mr. OUTHWAITEMay I ask—[HON. MEMBERS: "Sit down!" and "Order!"]—May I ask—["Sit down!"]—Is there anything improper in asking as to the authenticity of a certain statement alleged to have been made to the Greek Minister?
§ Mr. PRINGLEAre we to understand that it was not in the interests of the Alliance that the French Prime Minister made that statement?
§ Lord R. CECILMy hon. Friend is to understand no such thing.
§ Mr. STANTONWhy do you not choke these pacifists down?