HC Deb 06 March 1924 vol 170 cc1598-9
47. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government proposes to put forward any scheme for the reduction or limitation of armaments through the British representatives on the assembly of the League of Nations at the session of the assembly to be held in September next; whether such a scheme is being prepared; and whether it will be published beforehand for the information and education of public opinion in this and other countries?

Mr. CLYNES

His Majesty's Government have not yet had time to come to final conclusions on this question, which is one to which they attach the greatest importance, but also one requiring the most careful study in all its aspects and the greatest circumspection. Things will happen one way or another long before September which must influence this matter.

Captain BERKELEY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when this House will have an opportunity of discussing the whole Treaty of mutual assistance?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise on the question.

53. Sir ELLIS HUME-WILLIAMS

asked the Prime Minister if he can state to what extent disarmament has proceeded in the various countries represented at the Washington Conference since the date when that Conference took place; and if the Government will bring all possible pressure to bear upon those countries who are behindhand in carrying out their obligations to make reductions in their fighting forces in a ratio equal to those already made in Great Britain?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Ammon)

I have been asked to reply that Great Britain took steps to carry out the provisions of the Washington Naval Treaty in anticipation of the ratification of the Treaty by all the contracting Powers. Disarmament in all countries concerned is proceeding in accordance with the terms of the Treaty, and it is anticipated that all obligations will be fully carried out within the periods specified.

Sir E. HUME-WILLIAMS

Before the Government entertain the proposition of making further reductions in the fighting forces of this country, will they satisfy themselves that other countries are proceeding on the same lines?

Mr. AMMON

The hon. and learned Gentleman may be assured that all relevant considerations will be taken into account.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

But you said yesterday that you intended to build without reference to other countries!