§ 44. Mr. LYNNasked the Prime Minister the entire cost of the British Mission to the Vatican; whether he is aware that the presence of such a Mission is a violation of the Act of Settlement; and whether, in view of the attitude of the Vatican, towards Great Britain and her Allies during the War, he will consider the advisability of bringing the Mission to an end at the earliest possible moment?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe total cost of the Mission from its inception until 31st March, 1919, is £16,920 19s. 2d. I have not yet received figures for the period subsequent to 31st March. His Majesty's Government are carefully considering the question of the maintenance of the Mission and will take a decision in the near future.
§ Sir S. HOAREIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the great political value this Mission has been during the last five years?
Lieut.-Colonel A. MURRAYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there will be considerable opposition to the Mission being withdrawn?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am aware of both facts; that is why we are taking them into serious consideration. I fully realise the point put by the hon. Gentleman (Sir S. Hoare), that the Mission has been of great value during the War.
§ Captain REDMONDPerhaps the right hon. Gentleman will kindly inform the House what was the "attitude of the Vatican towards Great Britain and the Allies during the War"? It is stated hypothetically in the question.
§ The PRIME MINISTERI do not think there is anything arising on that point out of the question.
§ Captain REDMOND"In view of the attitude of the Vatican "—what was it?