HC Deb 19 May 1919 vol 116 cc23-4
47. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider granting the House of Commons an early opportunity of discussing the League of Nations portion of the Peace Treaty?

Mr. BONAR LAW (Leader of the House)

No, Sir, the Government are not prepared to adopt this suggestion.

Mr. HOGGE

Can my right hon. Friend say whether there will be an opportunity before the Recess of discussing the Peace terms?

Mr. BONAR LAW

As I have already pointed out, that must depend upon what happens. The date given to the Germans to reply is the 22nd of this month. The position may be changed thereafter. I cannot say now.

Mr. HOGGE

Will the right hon. Gentleman say, if he can, whether he will provide an opportunity before the Whitsuntide Recess?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am not inclined to say more than I have already said. Everyone knows the importance of this, and most certainly no question of time will prevent our having a discussion if we think it desirable in the public interest.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he will consider the discussion of the League of Nations portion of the terms separately from the rest of the Peace Treaty?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not see that there would be any advantage in that. It was put into the peace terms, but the whole must, I think, be discussed together.