HC Deb 09 July 1924 vol 175 cc2226-7
3. Brigadier-General SPEARS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will consider the employment of the British Military Attaché in Paris to advise the Ambassador on military matters with out, as at present, submitting questions to the Inter-Allied Military Committee, in view of the fact that His Majesty's Government have no control over this body?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Major Attlee)

I have been asked to reply. The hon. and gallant Member appears to be under some misapprehension. The British Military Attaché occupies a dual position, as Attaché and as British representative on the. Inter-Allied Military Committee. The duties of the latter appointment in no way interfere with the effective discharge of those of the former, which include advice to the Ambassador on all military matters.

Brigadier-General SPEARS

May I ask the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he considers the Inter-Allied Military Committee, which is presided over by Marshal Foch, is a suitable body to advise the Ambassador?

Mr. PONSONBY

That is a matter of opinion.

Mr. PRINGLE

What is your opinion?