HC Deb 16 July 1923 vol 166 cc1862-3
52. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister whether the recent German Note on reparations was addressed to the Government of the United States of America as well as to His Majesty's Government and the other Allied Governments; and whether any conversations have taken place between representatives of His Majesty's Government and representatives of the Government of the United States of America, on the subject of reparations and the present European situation?

The PRIME MINISTER

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In reply to the second part, no recent conversations have taken place.

54. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Prime Minister whether he will publish the main outlines of the British reply to the German Note before the actual text its sent, with the object of eliciting public opinion for the guidance of the Government on a matter of such vital importance?

The PRIME MINISTER

If my hon. Friend is anxious, as I am sure he is, that the contemplated reply should meet, after full consideration, with the approval of our Allies, I am sure he will realise, upon reflection, that the last way in which to secure that object would be to publish even the main outlines in advance. Nor is it clear that any compensatory advantage would be derived from the guidance of public opinion, which does not always speak with a single voice.

Mr. J. RAMSAY MacDONALD

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to state whether the reply to Germany will be communicated to the United States of America?

The PRIME MINISTER

The answer is in the affirmative.

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