HC Deb 20 June 1921 vol 143 cc878-80
30. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister what steps are now being taken to bring about peaceful conditions in Turkey-in-Asia; whether any efforts are being made to call a fresh conference to discuss a settlement between the Greeks and Turks; and whether the Italian troops have been withdrawn?

The PRIME MINISTER

This matter is now under consideration between the French Prime Minister and my Noble Friend the Foreign Secretary (Earl Curzon), pending a report from whom I am not in a position to make any statement. As soon as I receive definite information I will take an early opportunity of informing the House.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Yes, but may I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he can give us any comforting assurance to the effect that his Noble Friend has come to an agreement with the French Prime Minister?

The PRIME MINISTER

I would rather make no statement till my Noble Friend comes back.

39. Mr. AUBREY HERBERT

asked the Prime Minister if he will consider the advisability, under Article 11 of the League of Nations, of exercising the Friendly right of any Member to draw the attention of the Council of the League of Nations to the present dispute between Turkey and Greece that again threatens the peace of Europe?

The PRIME MINISTER

My hon. Friend may rest assured that His Majesty's Government will not lose sight of this possibility, if at any time it appear to them likely to advance matters in any way.

Mr. HERBERT

Will the Prime Minister say whether the present situation in Asia Minor is not due to the mistakes of the Imperial Council, and would it not be a good thing to hand this dispute over to some other body?

The PRIME MINISTER

I cannot answer that question. It is a matter for the League of Nations.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Has this situation not been altered by the arrangements made in Paris yesterday?

40. Viscount CURZON

asked the Prime Minister whether he can assure the House that no expenditure in respect of men, money, or material aid to Greece will be incurred without obtaining the sanction of the House of Commons?

The PRIME MINISTER

I would refer any Noble Friend to the answer which was given to him by the Lord Privy Seal on Thursday last, in reply to a supplementary question on this subject.