HC Deb 09 December 1919 vol 122 cc1140-1
Colonel WEDGWOOD (by Private Notice)

asked the Prime Minister whether any negotiations, formal or informal, are taking place between His Majesty's Government and the Government of France on the subject of a separate Anglo-French Treaty for the defence of France, in the event of the United States refusing to enter into such a Treaty; and whether an assurance can be given that no such separate obligation will be undertaken by His Majesty's Government in view of the fact that the undertaking of a similar obligation by the United States of America was a pre-condition of the Anglo-French Treaty as laid before the House?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am rather sorry that my hon. and gallant Friend has thought it necessary to put this question. I have no reason to suppose that there is any difference of opinion between the House and the Government. The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part of the question, the Government will not commit this country to any new obligation until the House of Commons has first had an opportunity of considering it.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

May we take it from that that the news published in France is entirely false?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Some news published in France must be true; my answer is accurate.