HC Deb 26 February 1924 vol 170 c245
46. Mr. LUMLEY

asked the Prime Minister whether the Secretary of State for Air, in stating that Macedonia is mainly Bulgarian, and should receive autonomy, was correctly expressing the views of His Majesty's Government?

Mr. CLYNES

No, Sir. The statement was inaccurately reported. Moreover, the meeting at which it was alleged to have been made was intended to be of a private nature. My Noble Friend attended the meeting in a private capacity, as he had promised to do so before taking office, and the remarks attributed to him must not be taken as affecting the views of His Majesty's Government.

Mr. JAMES HOPE

Will a suitable explanation, with an expression of regret, be sent to the Yugo-Slav Government?

Mr. CLYNES

I have nothing to add to the answer which I have given.

Mr. LUMLEY

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that this speech of the Air Minister was published in the Press, and had a wide circulation in Eastern Europe?

Mr. CLYNES

That does not affect the terms of the answer which I have given.