HC Deb 04 November 1919 vol 120 cc1311-2
48. Captain ORMSBY-GORE

asked the Prime Minister what steps had been taken by the Allied Powers in Paris to ensure against further massacres of Armenians in Armenia pending the decision of the American Government as to the future part they might or might not play in protecting the remnants of the Armenian nation; and who was bearing the present cost of the naval and military protection now given?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Consett on 29th October. There is a British force at Batoum, and certain of His Majesty's ships are available for use in these waters if required. The protection of the Armenians is, however, only one of several objects served by these dispositions, the cost of which is borne by His Majesty's Government.

Captain ORMSBY-GORE

Do we understand that none of the Allies contributed in any way to the protection of the Armenians, either financially or in a military or naval sense?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I should not like my hon. Friend to assume that.

Earl WINTERTON

Can the hon. Gentleman give any kind of estimate of the cost to this country of the protection of the Armenians?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I could by consultation with the Departments concerned, but not offhand.