19. Colonel NEWMANasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, under the terms of the Treaty of Peace, the total cost of the Army of Occupation in Germany is to be paid for by that country; whether he is aware that for the United States Government the cost of the Army of Occupation commences from the embarkation of troops, stores, and material in America, and for the French Government in a distance of 400 kilometres from the points of occupation; whether the cost to this country commences when troops or stores are embarked at a British port; and, if so, why are we paying to Belgium heavy sums for the transport of our troops through Belgian territory?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Sir A. Williamson)I have been asked to reply. Yes, Sir; Germany is to pay, in the form of a commuted rate, the full cost of the Army of Occupation, including cost of trans-port, not only from the British port of embarkation, but also for a railway journey of an average distance in this country. Payments to the United States and French Governments are to be based on a similar principle. When the troops 544 travel through Belgium, the transport charges are paid by the British Government in the first instance, but they are included in the commuted rate payable by Germany.
§ Brigadier-General CROFTHow much, up to date, has been paid by Germany for this Army of Occupation?
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONI am unable to answer.
§ 31. Mr. LUNNasked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government will lay before the League of Nations proposals for an agreement to prohibit the use of black troops in Europe, whether for garrison or other duties?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer is in the negative.
§ Major Sir B. FALLEIs there any reason for casting this slur upon brave people who are British subjects, and who have fought for this country? Is this what the League of Nations is for?
§ 32. Mr. LUNNasked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government has made representations to the French Government against the use of black troops in Europe, and especially in the occupied territories of Germany; and what further action it is proposed to take in the matter?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The second part, therefore, does not arise.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs there any chance of His Majesty's Government making any protest against this outrage?
§ Mr. STANTONYou are an outrage here—three of you are " Bolshies"!
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI do not think it is part of the duty of the Government, or this House, to judge the action of another Government.