HC Deb 26 April 1926 vol 194 cc1654-5
55. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Royal Abyssinian Government is a party to the present discussions regarding spheres of influence in Abyssinia between the British and Italian Governments?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

The Anglo-Italian discussions in regard to which informal exchanges of view are in progress with the French Government did not relate to spheres of influence in Abyssinia, but, as I informed the hon. and gallant Member on the 21st instant, had as their object the better definition by agreement of the respective interests of the two Powers under existing Treaties. The Abyssinian Government have been informed of their upshot.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Will the Abyssinian Government be consulted before any final agreement is reached with regard to Abyssinian property?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

We are in communication with the Abyssinian Government.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Will the consent of the Abyssinian Government—Abyssinia is a member of the League of Nations—be obtained before any arrangement is made for dealing with Abyssinian property?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman will put any further question on the Paper.