HC Deb 23 February 1920 vol 125 c1283
27. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's representative on the Council of the League of Nations has been instructed to introduce a motion for the reduction of armaments in accordance with Article 8 of the Covenant of the League of Nations; if so, when will this motion be introduced; and what will be the attitude of His Majesty's Government to such a motion if introduced by the representative of another Power?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I would refer the hon. Member to Article 9 of the Covenant of the League of Nations, under which a permanent Commission is to be constituted to advise the Council of the League of Nations on the execution of the provisions of Articles 1 to 8 of the Covenant. Steps will no doubt be taken by the Council to constitute this Commission in due course.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Are we to understand that nothing has yet been done in regard to this very urgent matter, especially in view of the financial situation of Europe?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I wish the hon. Member would look at the Treaty. Article 8 deals specifically with the limitation of armaments and the steps to be taken.

Colonel GREIG

Does not the Convention of the League contemplate the retention of such powers as will enable it to enforce its decision?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The Article to which I have referred discusses the question of the limitation of armaments; but it must depend upon the situation of each country, and the Council is specially designed to deal with the matter.

Mr. A. WILLIAMS

Has the League taken any of the steps provided for in the Treaty, or is it beginning to do so?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Steps are being taken to set up the Commission. I believe it has not been set up, but I believe it will be shortly.

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