HC Deb 22 October 1919 vol 120 c15
13. Mr. BRIANT

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress had been made with the organisation of the League of Nations; and when it was expected that the first meeting of the Assembly would take place?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I understand that the Acting Secretary-General has established such a provisional organisation as is necessary for the immediate duties imposed on the international Secretariat by the Treaty of Peace. Any appointments he may have made will, under Article 6 of the Covenant, be subject to the approval of the Council. The date of the meeting of the Assembly is not yet fixed. It will, in accordance with Article 5 of the Covenant, be summoned by the President of the United States.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Will the names of the British representatives be submitted to and approved by this House?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman will give me notice of that?

Mr. BILLING

When and where does the Council propose to sit?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Its first meeting, it was intended, was to be held at Washington. That is under consideration now. Its permanent habitation will be Geneva.