HC Deb 16 April 1923 vol 162 cc1659-60
39. Mr. F. GRAY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the increased activities of the French military authorities in the Ruhr area who are committing acts which are not sanctioned by treaty, international arrangement, or law, but constitute acts of war; and whether the British Government is giving transport and other facilities for such acts?

Mr. McNEILL

As the hon. Member is aware, His Majesty's Government have expressly dissociated themselves from the French action in the Ruhr, and they are giving no facilities other than those which were afforded before the occupation.

Mr. GRAY

Is it not a fact that the Government have promised special transport facilities and have also facilitated the action of the French in rearranging the areas?

Mr. McNEILL

The facilities that have been given for transport are those which were enjoyed before the occupation began.

Captain BENN

Has the hon. Gentleman read the speech in which General Smuts said that it was time we spoke out?

Mr. McNEILL

I have seen the speech.

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