HC Deb 16 November 1925 vol 188 cc20-1
Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL by Private Notice

asked the Prime Minister if he will state what is the earliest date at which it is open to Great Britain to divest itself of responsibility for the Government of Iraq under the terms of the mandate it holds from the League of Nations?

The PRIME MINISTER

The terms governing the responsibility of Great Britain in respect of Iraq were defined by the Decision of the Council of the League of Nations of the 27th September, 1924, the text of which was presented to Parliament as Command Paper 2317 in January last. Article 6 of that Decision provides that, in the event of Iraq being admitted to the League of Nations, the obligations assumed by His Majesty's Government will terminate. That is the juridical position as it stands to-day. As my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, important questions relating to Iraq, the decision of which must necessarily influence the policy of the Government, are now before the Council of the League of Nations. In the circumstances, I am unable to make any precise statement as to the date upon which Article 6 will become operative.

Sir F. HALL

Then may I ask whether we are to understand that this country is not to be committed to a policy of practically policing, and being responsible for Iraq for 25 years after the completion of the present undertaking?

The PRIME MINISTER

That matter has been considered, and will be considered by the Government, and, of course, this House will have an opportunity of expressing its views on the matter.

Mr. THOMAS

Are there any new circumstances arising in connection with Iraq that would warrant a departure from the Prime Minister's previously expressed views as to the evacuation of Iraq in three years?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, I should say not, but, at the same time, it must be obvious, I think, to the House, that it is not very convenient to have leading questions on this matter put when the matter is sub judice, and upon the result we shall have to form our policy.

Captain BENN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that those considerations did not preclude the Colonial Secretary from expressing his opinion?

Mr. N. MACLEAN

Is this House to understand, that while the League of Nations is discussing any question in which this country is interested, we in this House are precluded from expressing a protest or any opinion on the matter?

Mr. J. JONES

If we are going to be muzzled, he has got to be muzzled, too.