EGYPT. (Hansard, 9 February 1922)

§ 19. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY
asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present military and political situation in Asia Minor and, in particular, whether fighting is still continuing between the Greek and Turkish armies; what progress has been made by His Majesty's Government in bringing about peace in these regions; and whether the Treaty of Sèvres is to be considered as operative or whether the recent French action in concluding a pact with the Angora Government may be considered as having annulled the Treaty?

Mr. HARMSWORTH
The military and political situation in Asia Minor has not materially changed since the House rose last year. The Greek and Kemalist forces still face each other on a line somewhat to the east of Eskishehr and Afion Karahissar, but with the winter active fighting appears to have been suspended. Preliminary discussions are taking place with the French and Italian Governments with a view to holding a meeting in Paris at an early date on the subject of the restoration of peace in Asia Minor. The Treaty of Sèvres has not been ratified and is therefore not in force. With regard to the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the published correspondence between His Majesty's Government and the French Government on this subject, and the assurances therein given to His Majesty's Government by the French Government.

§ Mr. T. P. O'CONNOR
Is it not true that the representatives of Greece are at present in London, and have put themselves entirely into the hands of the Government with regard to their mediation in order to prevent further bloodshed?

Mr. HARMSWORTH
Perhaps my hon. Friend will put that in the form of another question, so that I can give him a specific reply.