HC Deb 05 July 1920 vol 131 cc1000-1
83. Mr. MYERS

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether a Commission has been set up by Council of the League of Nations to investigate the question of armaments; and who are the British representatives on this Commission?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The Council of the League of Nations resolved during its recent session in Rome, to set up a permanent Advisory Commission for military, naval and air questions, in accordance with Article IX. of the Covenant. The following British representatives have been appointed to the Commission:

Naval Representative.—Admiral the Hon. Sir Somerset A. GoughCalthorpe.

Military Representative.—Brigadier-General G. S. Clive.

Air Representative.—Group Captain P. R. C. Groves.

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Are these representatives of Great Britain provided with full information as to our naval and military plans, and at liberty to communicate it to other members of the League of Nations?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I require notice of that question?

Captain W. BENN

Is it not part of the Covenant of the League of Nations that there should be an interchange of information?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Would my hon. Friend be prepared to make a full statement as to the powers of the Commission?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Certainly, if opportunity be provided.

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I will put down a question.

Mr. BILLING

May I ask the Leader of the House whether, having regard to the gravity of the question just raised, he will give this House an opportunity of debating this question, as to whether the representatives of this country are at liberty to give to the League of Nations information as to our naval and military policy?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am sorry that I was not listening to the discussion.

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