HC Deb 30 April 1923 vol 163 cc967-8
52. Mr. C. BUXTON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, at the recent meeting of the Council of the League of Nations, the British representative protested against or made any comments upon the decree of the Governing Commission of the Saar District imposing severe penalties on any person who should criticise the actions of the said Governing Commission; and what answer was given by M. Rault, the French representative on the Commission?

Mr. McNEILL

I cannot undertake to give the House details of a discussion in the Council of the League of Nations. I must ask the hon. Member to await the issue of whatever statement the Council may decide to publish.

Mr. BUXTON

Did the British representatives abstain from voting on the point?

Mr. McNEILL

I cannot say without notice.

Captain BERKELEY

May I ask the British representative, whom we are glad to see back again with the House, whether a statement on the work of the Council will be made at an early date?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Edward Wood)

I cannot say in what form a statement will be made. It is obviously a matter for the Leader of the House. I advise hon. Members to follow the advice of the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs, and await the full report.

Mr. BUXTON

When will the report be issued?

Mr. McNEILL

I cannot say. I have not been in communication with the Council.