HC Deb 19 March 1919 vol 113 cc2087-8
58. Mr. MACMASTER

asked the Prime Minister whether there is any objection to stating what were the terms of the reference to the Commission appointed at the Peace Conference to report on the subject of indemnities and reparations; what were the terms of the Report of the Commission; and whether there is any special reason for departing from the precedent established by another Commission which has already reported on the subject of a League of Nations?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given on the 13th February, which was as follows:— The British delegates on the Commission are definitely instructed to claim an indemnity which will include the costs of the war as well as damage actually inflicted, and the Commission are now considering the amount to be claimed, the method in which payment can be made, and the means of enforcing payment. As the Commission has not yet reported, the last part of the question does not arise.

Mr. MACMASTER

Have the Commission ever asked for fresh instructions?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No, never.