§ 47. Mr. A. HERBERTasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the modifications of the Treaty of Sevres recently suggested to Turkey and Greece by the London Conference and of the neutrality of the Straits, it is proposed to allow the Greeks the free use of the Dardanelles and the Sea of Marmora for naval and military operations against the Turks; and whether it is proposed to sanction the threatening or capture of Constantinople by the Greek Fleet?
§ The PRIME MINISTERHis Majesty's Government have agreed with their Allies to maintain an attitude of neutrality during the present hostilities. This will cover Constantinople, which is in Allied occupation. As regards the Straits, I would remind my hon. Friend that the international arrangements concerning them have been in abeyance since the Turkish Government violated them by admitting the "Goeben" in 1914, and that the fresh arrangements contemplated by the Treaty of Peace with Turkey will only become binding upon the signatories with the entry into force of that Treaty. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.
§ Mr. HERBERTAre any Greek troops now going through the Straits to fight in Asia Minor?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI must have notice of that question.
Sir J. D. REESIn view of our position in India, is it not desirable that the Government should express some disapproval of these Greek attacks on the Turks?