75. Major C. LOWTHERasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of his statement in the House of Commons, on 5th May last, that it is a disadvantage, not only to Mexico, but to the commercial and other interests of this country, that our relations with Mexico cannot be be more regular, he will explain why the Foreign Office have delayed so long in remedying this evil; and why the Foreign Office still withhold recognition from the constitutionally elected government of Mexico which, in addition to providing overwhelming evidence of stability, offered in October last to agree to the suggestions of His Majesty's Government with regard to the setting up of a mixed claims commission?
Mr. HARMSWORTHI agree with the hon. and gallant Member that it would be to the advantage of all concerned that our relations with Mexico should be on a regular basis, but I cannot admit that the responsibility for the present state of affairs lies with His Majesty's Government rather than the Mexican Government. Among the reasons which have affected His Majesty's Government in considering the question of recognition, I may mention the reluctance of the 948 Mexican Government to deal with the question of their foreign indebtedness and the continued occupation of British properties without the payment of compensation. The draft of an agreement for the establishment of a mixed claims commission to deal with British claims has just been forwarded to the representative of the Mexican Government in London. The hon. and gallant Member will realise the desirability of avoiding statements in this House which might offend the susceptibilities of the Mexican Government, and thus prejudice the maintenance of those good relations in which he is so much interested.
Major LOWTHERIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of my hon. Friend's answer, I give notice that I propose to raise this question on the Motion for Adjournment to-night.
§ Sir J. NORTON-GRIFFITHSCan my hon. Friend say whether His Majesty's Government are in touch with the American Government on this matter?
Mr. HARMSWORTHI am not pre pared to say that I know what my hon. Friend means by "in touch." The matter is being considered by both Governments.