HC Deb 11 June 1918 vol 106 cc2021-2
5. Mr. OUTHWAITE

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the declaration of sympathy with the nationalistic aspirations of the Czechoslovaks and Jugo-Slavs issued by the Premiers of Great Britain, France, and Italy at Versailles on 3rd June; and whether he can state what steps the British Government proposes to take to secure the liberation of the Czechoslovaks and Jugo-Slavs who, for pursuing nationalistic ambitions, have been imprisoned without trial by the Austrian Government?

Lord R. CECIL

The British Government have no means of modifying the actions of the Austrian Government in these matters. But these persons are the enemies of our enemies, and as such are entitled to our warmest sympathy.

Mr. OUTHWAITE

What is the difference between the Austrian treatment of men with nationalistic ambitions and the treatment by this Government of Irish aspirations

6. Mr. OUTHWAITE

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the declaration of sympathy for the nationalistic aspirations of the Czecho-Slovaks and Jugo-Slavs issued by the Premiers of Great Britain, France, and Italy on 3rd June at Versailles, he will state whether these peoples aspire to set up independent Republican States and will be supported in such aspirations, or whether the sympathy with their nationalistic ambitions is only a matter of transference of over lordship from Austria to Italy in pursuance of the latter's claim to the Adriatic littoral?

Lord R. CECIL

It will be for the liberated Czecho-Slovak and Jugo-Slav peoples themselves to determine their future status. His Majesty's Government fully recognise the many proofs given by these races of intense national feeling, and cordially acknowledge the assistance which the national troops of the Czechoslovaks and Jugo-Slavs are rendering to the Allied cause.

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Will the Noble Lord take any steps, through the War Aims Committee or otherwise, to inform the British people of the heroism of these people and their general position in Austria? There is complete ignorance on the subject.

Lord R. CECIL

I should have thought everyone knew where Bohemia was and where the territories inhabited by the Jugo-Slavs are situated.

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