HC Deb 24 November 1926 vol 200 cc380-1
10. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can inform the House as to the existing position of disarmament in Germany in accordance with the Treaty of Versailles; and whether his attention has been called to certain passages in the 1926 edition of the Reichswehr Manual of Instruction which reflect upon the Treaty of Versailles?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

In regard to the first part of this question, there are still a certain number of points outstanding, and negotiations are proceeding between the Allied Military Commission of Control in Berlin and the German Government. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative.

Sir W. DAVISON

Now that my right hon. Friend's attention has been drawn to this, does he not think it is a very serious matter, anti that it shows the Germans are really not carrying out in spirit the intentions of the Treaty?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I understand that when the attention of the German Government was called to the matter the Manual was withdrawn from circulation, and that no further copies will be issued.

Mr. MACLEAN

Is it not the case that members of the British Government have made speeches that are reflections upon the Treaty of Versailles?