§ 45. Lord HUGH CECILasked the Prime Minister whether the Government will recommend to Parliament a grant of public money to assist the 100,000 Christian refugees from Asia Minor who are now in Greek territory; and whether the Italian and Belgian Governments have made similar grants?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. J. Ramsay MacDonald)His Majesty's Government, together with the Italian Government, among others, have already contributed considerably to the alleviation of the lot of these refugees, and 2915 continue in their endeavours to enlist public sympathy in this country for them, but in view of the many calls upon them the Government do not feel justified in recommending any further grant of public money under this head.
§ Mr. J. HARRISWhen the Prime Minister says that the Government has contributed, does that include any response to the recent appeal from the League of Nations?
§ Mr. HEALYWill the right hon. Gentleman direct a question to the Northern Government of Ireland as to whether they will give compensation to refugees from Northern Ireland?
§ The PRIME MINISTERWith reference to the League of Nations, we have not been satisfied that the conditions under which it was dispensed deserved the grant asked for. We are always anxious to do what we can for refugees, but we must do it carefully and under conditions which will ensure that for 20s. given the refugee gets 20s. worth of benefit.
§ Mr. J. HARRISWill the right hon. Gentleman keep an open mind until he gets to Geneva?
§ The PRIME MINISTERMy mind is always open.