HC Deb 03 August 1926 vol 198 cc2814-5
Mr. NOEL BUXTON (by Private Notice)

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will make any statement as to the dispute between Bulgaria and Yugo-Slavia; whether it is a fact that orders have been given to the Yugo-Slav military commanders to invade Bulgarian territory, and what action is proposed by the League of Nations and by His Majesty's Government?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I have no confirmation of the report that the Yugo-Slav Government have ordered their troops to invade Bulgaria as a result of the recent comitadji incident at Kriva Palanka. There is, however, reason to suppose that in the event of Macedonian bands crossing the frontier in large numbers the Yugo-Slav forces would be ordered to pursue them back into Bulgarian territory. It is understood that the Yugo-Slav Government propose to bring the matter to the notice of the League of Nations. His Majesty's Government are closely watching developments.

Mr. BUXTON

Will His Majesty's Government in any ease inform the Yugo-Slav Government of its disapproval of any action which is not previously sanctioned by the League of Nations?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

We do not know that any such action has yet been taken.

Mr. RILEY

Is the Under-Secretary not aware that the Press reports the intention of the Yugo-Slav Government to enter Bulgarian territory; and if that be the case, will any action be taken to try to prevent any such thing?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

As I have already said, we are watching developments, but we have no reason to suppose that any such action will be taken.