HC Deb 02 March 1922 vol 151 c565
30. Mr. MILLS

asked the Prime Minister whether the British representatives at the forthcoming conference on Near Eastern problems will be instructed to carry out the pledge of the Allies, endorsed by the Assembly of the League of Nations, that a national home for the Armenians, entirely independent of Turkish rule, shall be established in the territory in North-East Asia Minor, known as Turkish Armenia?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The hon. Member doubtless refers to the Allied proposal of March last, which contemplated the allocation to the existing Armenian state of territory on the Eastern frontiers of Turkey as a national home for Turkish Armenians. The feasibility of this proposal will be discussed at the forthcoming Allied Conference, when the best means of satisfying legitimate Armenian aspirations will be carefully considered.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will the Prime Minister consent to receive a deputation from the Labour party on this question in order that we may try to get justice done to the Armenians?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will communicate directly with the Prime Minister. I cannot speak in his name on this subject.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that thousands of refugees from Turkish Armenia are now in the Caucasus waiting to get back to their land as soon as the Turks have left?

Mr. O'CONNOR

Can the right hon. Gentleman hold out any hope of an early discussion of the policy of the Government in regard to this question?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I cannot hold out any hope of affording special facilities for a discussion.

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