HC Deb 12 July 1922 vol 156 cc1197-8
4. Viscount WOLMER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that tenders have been called for by the French Protectorate Government, on behalf of the Sultan of Morocco, for the construction of the port of Tangier, notwithstanding the fact that the constitution of the company, to which the concession to operate the port has been granted, is not in accordance with the provisions of the existing Treaties in respect of Tangier, and that it has not received the approval of His Majesty's Government; and whether he can state what steps His Majesty's Government; propose to take in the matter?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

His Majesty's Government have made a formal protest to the French Government against the proposed adjudication of tenders for the construction of harbour works at Tan- gier. They hope that this question, among others, will be settled at the conference which is to take place within the next few weeks.

Viscount WOLMER

Will my hon. Friend give an assurance that British trade interests will not be lost sight of at that conference?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Yes, I can give that assurance.

Colonel ASHLEY

Is not the hon. Gentleman going to do anything else besides making a formal protest? Will he not say they will not recognise this concession unless it is agreed to formally by the Government?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I do not like to add to the answer, but if my hon. Friend will look at the answer he will see that the point is covered.

Colonel ASHLEY

Does my hon Friend say he will protest and do nothing else? Is that sufficient?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

This very question will be discussed at the forthcoming conference.