HC Deb 16 June 1920 vol 130 cc1253-4
58. Mr. C. PALMER

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether, in the arrangement under which President Wilson is to delimit, in his personal capacity, the boundaries of Armenia, any decision has been arrived at as to meeting the cost of delimitation; and, is it likely to fall on the British taxpayer?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The only expense that can be foreseen in connection with the delimitation of the frontiers of Armenia by President Wilson, would arise from the possible necessity of tracing the frontiers on the spot. The Treaty provides that this would be done by a Boundary Commission, the expenses of which would be borne in equal parts by the two parties concerned, namely, Turkey and Armenia.

Mr. BOTTOMLEY

Is there any precedent for the representative of a foreign state, being invited in his personal capacity, to intervene in international problems; what are the special qualifications of Mr. Wilson in his private capacity for this delicate work; and have we not already had mischief enough from his interference?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am afraid I cannot give a precedent, but I should be rather surprised if there were not one. As to President Wilson's qualifications, that must be a matter of opinion, but in the view of the Government he is qualified.

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