42. Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALLasked the Prime Minister if any steps have yet 1428 been taken under the article of the Versailles Treaty which provides for Germany to give every facility for any investigation which the Council of the League of Nations may consider necessary; and if it is intended to enforce this provision in such a way as to make it impossible for Germany again to make the secret preparations for aggression which preceded the great War?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe execution of the disarmament clauses of the Treaty of Versailles is at present watched by the Inter-Allied Commissions of Control. The need for any investigation such as that contemplated by Article 213 of the Treaty has not therefore at present arisen. The question how effect can best be given to Article 213 when the time comes is for the League of Nations to consider.
Sir F. HALLMay I ask whether the Clauses with regard to this matter in the Versailles Treaty will be strictly adhered to, in order that these clandestine arrangements may not be made by Germany in the future?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThey are very sternly enforced. There are no Clauses in the Treaty which are more sternly enforced, and, as a result of the pressure which has been brought to bear upon Germany, she is reduced to a condition which is more impotent even than some of the small Powers which have arisen since the Treaty.