57. Mr. A. T. DAVIESasked the Prime Minister why the British Mission is still at the Vatican; what purpose it serves; what it has cost up to date; what it now costs per week; and when it is proposed to bring its work to an end?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe British Mission remains at the Vatican in order to keep in touch with the Holy See. The total cost of the Mission from the date of its appointment down to 30th September last was £19,117 10s. The accounts are not rendered weekly, but the average weekly expenses are about £84. As regards the last part of the question, I can add nothing to the answer given by the Prime Minister to the hon. and gallant Member for Chelsea on 22nd March.
§ Sir S. HOAREHas the Government received the answer of the Government of Canada, and does that answer show that the Canadian Government is strongly in favour of the retention of this Mission?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI would rather not answer that without notice.