HC Deb 27 June 1917 vol 95 c357
6. Mr. L. SMITH

asked whether it is a correct interpretation of the Allied note to President Wilson that Alsace and Lorraine are to be transferred to France without measures being taken to ascertain the wishes of the populations concerned?

Mr. BALFOUR

I cannot undertake to expound the exact form in which the general principles laid down in the Allied note will be applied.

Mr. SMITH

Are we to understand from that reply that the fate of these populations is to be determined without their wishes being ascertained?

Mr. BALFOUR

No, Sir; I said I cannot undertake to expound the exact form in which the general principles laid down in the Allied Note will be applied. Obviously you cannot infer from that statement what the hon. Gentleman seems to desire.

Mr. SMITH

But have these proposals been accepted by the Government of the United States or the new Government of Russia?

Mr. BALFOUR

If the hon. Gentleman wants to ask another question he had better put it on the Paper.

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