49. Sir F. HALLasked the Prime Minister if he will state the present position with regard to the proposed Treaty under which Great Britain and the United States of America undertook to support France in case of attack; and if the Government propose to take any action with a view to renewing the understanding between this country and France if America should refuse to come in.
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe position is that the United States have not yet ratified the Treaty signed between France and the United States at Versailles on 28th June, 1919. I cannot say what the attitude of the Government may be in the eventuality mentioned in the second part of the question.
Sir F. HALLAre we to understand that the position of the Government will depend on the decision of the United States, or, on the other hand, are we going to stand by France irrespective of the United States?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWMy hon. Friend is under a misapprehension. Our position under the Treaty is contingent on its being adopted by the United States. If the United States refuse to adopt it, a new situation arises, with which we shall have to deal.
§ Major-General SEELYAre we to understand what seems to be an extraordinary doctrine, that our honourable obligation to protect France against sudden and unprovoked attack—which is obviously more binding on us—is to fall to the ground if a powerful neighbour stands aside?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI did not say it would fall to the ground. I said at the time the Treaty was made it was depended on its adoption both by the United States and this country. If it is not so 1697 adopted, then the decision which the Government will take must depend on an examination of the circumstances.
§ Major-General SEELYOn the understanding we shall be as ready as before, or even more ready, to protect France against unprovoked attack?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI really think it is premature to assume that the United States will not ratify it. I should be very sorry to say anything to indicate what we would do in such a case.