§ 31. Mr. J. HARRISasked the Prime Minister whether, during the discussion in Paris, any suggestion was made that the principal proceedings of the Inter-Allied Conference should, like those of the Council of the League of Nations, be held publicly in order to mark a definite break in the old practice of secret diplomacy?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo such discussion took place at Paris. Press arrangements will have to be the subject of an agreement between the representatives at the Conference.
§ Mr. HARRISIs it the right hon. Gentleman's intention to endeavour to get this Conference arranged on the basis of open diplomacy, which has proved such a success at Geneva?
§ The PRIME MINISTEROn the basis of open diplomacy, certainly—not open diplomacy used in a sort of parrot-cry way, but as a real, substantial contribution to informing the public accurately.
§ Mr. HARRISI do not mean in any parrot-cry form. Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware of the great success which has attended the open diplomacy of the Council of the League—a system which, after all, owes its initiative to our friends opposite, and may I hope he will follow on along those lines?
§ 38. Mr. ORMSBY-GOREasked the Prime Minister what arrangements have been come to regarding the representation of the Dominions at the forthcoming Inter-Allied Conference in London?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am still in communication with the Dominion Governments on the matter.
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREWill a statement be made either to-morrow or before the Conference meets so that the Conference 14 should not meet without the public in the Dominions knowing exactly what arrangements have been made?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe matter is still under consideration. We are in communication with the Dominions, and as soon as it is arranged an announcement will be made.