HC Deb 11 March 1918 vol 104 cc22-3
12. Sir J. JARDINE

asked the Foreign Secretary whether he can give any information as to whether any Japanese forces have arrived in Siberia?

Mr. BALFOUR

His Majesty's Government have no information to the effect that Japanese forces have arrived in Siberia.

Sir H. DALZIEL

May we take it as a fact that we are supporting the. suggestion that Japan should take an active part in the War?

Mr. BALFOUR

I am afraid I have no statement to make on that general subject.

Mr. HOGGE

In view of the importance of the position, can the right hon. Gentleman say when this Government is likely to be able to give the House any information in regard to the proposed intervention of Japan?

Mr. BALFOUR

I am afraid I cannot undertake to give a date.

Mr. PRINGLE

Can the right hon. Gentleman not make a statement of policy in this House and not leave it to his Under-Secretary to make communications to the Press?

Mr. HOGGE

Have you seen the "Times" this morning?

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the statement made by the Under-Secretary of State committing this country to the support of Japan was made with the sanction of the War Cabinet?

Mr. BILLING

Are we to understand that as these troops have not yet arrived they are on their way?

Mr. BALFOUR

I was not asked that.

Several HON. MEMBERS

rose —

Mr. SPEAKER

Hon. Members must put down further questions.