HC Deb 26 June 1922 vol 155 cc1650-1
56. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has now received details of the damage caused to the persons and property of non-combatants in the recent bombardment of Samsun by Greek warships; whether any neutral persons were killed or injured, or their property damaged: and what were the total casualties?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

His Majesty's High Commissioner at Constantinople has been asked to report any information which he may be able to obtain.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Will the hon. Gentleman send me that information, or shall I put down another question?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

It will be convenient if the hon. and gallant Member will put down another question.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

I will put it down for this day week.

57. Mr. T. P. O'CONNOR

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the attention of the Government has been called to a speech by Mustapha Kemal Pasha at Ismid on 20th June, in which he made a strong indictment of the policy of the British Government towards Turkey and justified the atrocities of the Turks committed against the Greeks on the ground of military necessity, and finally made the official announcement that his Government would not take part in the inquiry which the British Government has resolved to make, with the full assent of all our Allies; and what action the Government intend to take in reference to this challenge?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I have only seen the version of this speech which appeared in the Press. While justifying generally the description given by my hon. Friend, it contained no reference to the rejection of the proposed Commission of Inquiry. In any case, no special or separate action on the part of His Majesty's Government is called for.

Lord R. CECIL

Has the hon. Gentleman, in fact, received any information as to whether this Commission will be allowed to proceed?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Perhaps the Noble Lord will put that question down. I am not quite sure.