HC Deb 30 July 1919 vol 118 c2108
64. Lord ROBERT CECIL

asked the Prime Minister whether the obligation for Germany to deliver] 40,000 milch cows within three months of the coming into force of the Treaty is an absolute one, or whether their delivery is within the discretion of the Reparation Commission?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am advised that the obligation is absolute, but that the time of performance will be within the discretion of the Reparation Commission.

Lord R. CECIL

Is this one of the cases in which the Reparation Commission can postpone their action by a majority or must it be a unanimous decision?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I cannot answer that specific question without notice.

Lord R. CECIL

But as the matter stands am I not right in saying that the delivery of these cows has to be. made within three months 1

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have not myself attempted to follow the exact meaning of all these points. The answer which I have given is the answer which has been sent to me from Paris, from the Economic Council dealing with it.

Lord R. CECIL

Not the Economic Council.