Mr. J. RAMSAY MacDONALD(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether it is his intention to publish the French and Belgian replies to the communication regarding the German Note, so that the House of Commons may consider them before it rises?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)No replies have yet been received.
Mr. MacDONALDMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he has any reason to expect them to-day or tomorrow, in accordance with the statement which has appeared in the newspapers; and whether he has made up his mind in the event of their being received to have a debate on Thursday, so that we may have the benefit of those replies?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI think it is quite possible something will be received, but I am very doubtful at present whether there will be anything that we can publish. I am afraid it will only be a continuation of the negotiations. I shall know better when I receive the replies.
§ Captain BERKELEYWill the Prime Minister be willing to make representations to the Governments concerned to the effect that it is the wish of this Parliament to discuss this matter?
Mr. MacDONALDMay I put a further supplementary question? On Thursday, I understand, we are to debate the subject. Do the Government intend to give us any indication of the nature of their communication to France and Belgium, in order that we may discuss it on Thursday?
The PRIMEMINISTERI can hardly come to a conclusion until nearer the time as to how much it will be possible to say. I can assure the House I am anxious to give it as much information as I can.