HC Deb 16 April 1918 vol 105 cc190-1
7. Mr. ROWLANDS

asked whether it is intended to publish the statements of Prince Lichnowsky as a White Paper for public circulation?

9. Sir CHARLES HOBHOUSE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he proposes to publish such information as she has been able to obtain about the Lichnowsky Memorandum, or the text of the Memorandum itself, as a Parliamentary Paper?

Lord R. CECIL

A full translation of the Memorandum will be placed in the Library, and it will be given wide publicity. I do not think any further action is required.

Mr. ROWLANDS

May I ask whether, on account of the desirability of getting reliable information, the Government will issue either the entire statement or some précis of it of a character useful for propaganda purposes?

Lord R. CECIL

I think a translation of it is being issued—I rather think it is issued to-day—but I do not think anything would be gained by laying a White Paper on the Table. As far as translation is concerned, I think that meets the whole case of my hon. Friend.

Mr. ROWLANDS

But can the Noble Lord take the responsibility for the authenticity of the translation?

Lord R. CECIL

It is very difficult indeed for the Government to make itself responsible for the authenticity of every word.