HC Deb 10 November 1921 vol 148 cc593-4
38. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Prime Minister whether proper pressure is being brought to bear upon Hungary to insist on the ineligibility for the throne of Hungary of all the Hapsburg aspirants, including Joseph and Albrecht, as well as Karl; and what measure of disbandment of the Hungarian army and irregulars is being enforced by either the Supreme Council or the Little Entente?

The PRIME MINISTER

The Allied Powers pointed out to the Hungarian Government that the law depriving the Hapsburg Dynasty of the rights of succession would not apparently exclude the possibility of the election of a Hapsburg as King at some future date. The Hungarian Government have now given an undertaking to conform to the Declaration of the Allied Powers of February, 1920, to the effect that the restoration of any member of the Hapsburg Dynasty could not be tolerated. They have further declared that they will not proceed to a solution of the question of the Hungarian throne without previous consultation with the Allied Powers and without obtaining their consent.

The work of disarming Hungary in accordance with the Treaty of Trianon is proceeding, but progress has been inevitably delayed by recent events. The States forming the Little Entente are not under the Treaty entitled to representation on the Commission of Control.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the reported recognition of Admiral Horthey given in yesterday's papers is real or not?

The PRIME MINISTER

I do not think we know.

Mr. HARMSWORTH

We know nothing about it.

Sir H. COWAN

Is this attitude in regard to Hungary considered consistent with the Hungarian right to self-determination?

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

There were pledges after the War!

The PRIME MINISTER

There are difficulties in preserving peace in that quarter of the world; and there are many things which must be taken into account. That is why the Powers are intervening. I am afraid if Hungary took a certain course it might mean war, and that is the last thing that the world wants now.

Sir C. YATE

If the Hungarians ask for a King, is there any objection to them having one?

HON. MEMBERS

"Yes" and "No!"