HC Deb 24 March 1926 vol 193 cc1184-5
4. Mr. HARRIS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the recent new treaty negotiated by Italy with Serbia was made in consultation with the League of Nations; and whether it is customary, before such treaties are ratified by the contracting Powers, to deposit them with the League for the approval of the Council of the League?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which my hon. Friend returned to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for North Norfolk (Mr. Buxton) on the 15th March, to which I have nothing to add. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.

Mr. NOEL BUXTON

In reference to the answer given previously, are the new points of agreement such as will come under the provisions of Article 18 of the Covenant?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

So far as I know there is no agreement at present.

Mr. HARRIS

Is it not desirable that these treaties should be deposited with the League, so that the League may have official knowledge of their terms?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

It must be a treaty before it can be deposited. So far as I know there is no treaty.