Mr. J. RAMSAY MacDONALD(by Private Notice) asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if the Government have considered their policy regarding the Note on Reparations and Security handed to them and the Allies by Germany; whether they propose to communicate their views on the subject to France, Belgium and Italy with a view to negotiations, taking opportunity of referring to the Allied debts as part of the settlement; and when he can make a full announcement on the subject to the House?
§ Mr. BALDWINThe Note from the German Government was handed by the German Ambassador to the Foreign Secretary yesterday afternoon, and I feel sure the House will appreciate that, in view of the short time which has elapsed since its presentation, I am not in a position to make any statement.
Mr. MacDONALDCould the right hon. Gentleman say when he is likely to be able to make a statement on the subject?
§ Mr. BALDWINI would rather that my hon. Friend did not press me for the moment. I only got this question at half-past two, 10 minutes before I entered the House, and have not yet been able to consult any of my colleagues. Perhaps my hon. Friend will put a question down.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYI do not propose to put the question of which I have given notice, but, arising out of the right hon. Gentleman's reply, may we take it that His Majesty's Government have no part in the Press campaign in this country, attempting to judge the issue before there has been proper time to consider it or discuss it with our Allies?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is an innuendo which ought not to have been made.
§ Mr. PONSONBYIn view of the fact that the French Government is likely to answer the Note this afternoon or tomorrow morning, will the right hon. Gentleman not consider this as a matter of great urgency?
§ Mr. BALDWINI do not know anything at all about that.