HC Deb 13 February 1922 vol 150 cc577-8
26. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister the names of the British representatives who will attend the forthcoming economic conference at Genoa; whether representatives from the British Dominions have been invited to attend; and whether the House of Commons will be given an opportunity of discussing the policy to be adopted by the representatives of His Majesty's Government at the conference before the conference assembles, as was done in the case of the Washington Conference?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Lloyd George)

The names of the British representatives have not yet been settled. The British Dominions have been invited. As for an opportunity of discussing the matter, a question must be addressed to the Leader of the House on this subject.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Is there any question of a postponement of the date last given by the right hon. Gentleman, or does that date stand?

Mr. MYERS

Is it intended to invite technical or trade advisers outside the Civil Service?

The PRIME MINISTER

Oh, yes, certainly.

Captain WEDGWOOD BENN

Does the right hon. Gentleman expect the conference to meet on 8th March?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is entirely in the hands of the Italian Government. It is not in our hands.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

There is no postponement at present?

The PRIME MINISTER

There is no postponement at present.

62. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the Prime Minister if acceptance by Russia has been received of the invitation to the conference at Genoa on the 8th March; and whether the Soviet Government has accepted paragraphs 3, 4, and 5 of the Resolution passed by the Allies at Cannes on 6th January last?

The PRIME MINISTER

Russia has accepted the invitation of the Italian Prime Minister. In the invitation sent to Russia, special attention is called to the paragraphs mentioned in the question. An acceptance has been received without any protest or qualification in respect of those paragraphs.