§ 3. Mr. STRANGERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that extensive orders have recently been placed with armament firms in this country for the prompt delivery of war supplies in the Balkans; whether strained relations exist between certain of the Balkan States which may result in war in the near future; and whether His Majesty's Government has offered any suggestion to the Powers concerned for settlement of existing differences?
§ Mr. PONSONBYIt is the fact that orders have recently been placed in this country for military material, but these orders are not of a nature to justify the alarmist interpretation placed upon them by the hon. Member. The Balkan situation is passing through one of its recurrent periods of tension, but His Majesty's Government are carefully watching the situation and will exercise their good offices with a view to promote an equitable settlement of any difficulties which may arise.