52. Sir J. D. REESasked the Lord President of the Council whether 18 of the States belonging to the League of Nations have not paid their subscriptions, arrears in some cases dating from 1920; whether two of such nations, namely, Salvador and Argentina, have at any time paid any subscriptions; and whether England has advanced, lent, or paid for the nations in arrears their subscriptions or any portions thereof?
§ Mr. FISHERI have been asked to answer this question. I am informed 1514 that the position at the end of 1921 was that a few States had not paid their contributions in full for July-December, 1920. As regards 1921, contributions in full were still awaited from 21 States. The answer to the second and last parts of the question is in the negative.
Sir J. D. REESIs it quite clear that the British taxpayer will not be asked to pay for the impecunious friends made for him? If these 21 States are in default, who is paying the not inconsiderable expenses of the League of Nations? Will the right hon. Gentleman tell me?
§ Mr. FISHERThe British taxpayer will not pay more than his share.