HC Deb 18 April 1923 vol 162 cc2017-8
5. Lieut. - Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has had information that the Chester Railway and Mining Concession has been ratified by the Turkish Nationalist Assembly; and whether this concession in any way violates commercial contracts previously obtained by British companies?

Mr. McNEILL

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, but failing information regarding the exact nature of the concessions, as modified by the Angora Government, am not in a position to reply to the second part.

Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

May I point out that the question does not apply to Iraq or Mosul at all?

Mr. McNEILL

Our information is that various modifications have been made by the Angora Government, and we have not yet discovered what they are. Therefore, cannot give any further information.

Captain W. BENN

Will the American Government be represented at Lausanne in reference to this concession?

Mr. McNEILL

There is a question on that subject later.