HC Deb 13 July 1922 vol 156 cc1444-5
29. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister if he is aware of the injury to British trade that is being caused by the continuance of military and naval warfare in Asia Minor and the coasts thereof; whether any progress towards agreement was made during his discussions with Signor Schanzer on the question of Greece and Turkey in London last week; whether he can make any statement on the subject; and whether the question of offering Cyprus to Greece in exchange for Smyrna has been considered by His Majesty's Government?

The PRIME MINISTER

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative and to the third and fourth parts in the negative. As regards the second part, the exchange of views with the Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs was undoubtedly favourable to the prospects of agreement.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

What is being done now in reference to bringing about peace between these belligerents? Are we taking any steps to call a fresh conference, or what are we doing?

The PRIME MINISTER

That question has been repeatedly answered by the hon. Gentleman the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs.

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Has the statement in the "Times" this morning, that it is proposed to hold a conference actually in Turkey on this question, any truth in it?

The PRIME MINISTER

I have not seen it.

Sir C. YATE

Is there any question of offering Cyprus to Greece?

The PRIME MINISTER

No.