§ 19. Mr. HARMSWORTHasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the negotiations between the British and Iraq Governments on the question of Iraq applying for membership of the League of Nations are now terminated; and whether he has any statement on the subject to communicate to this House?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThe discussions that have been taking place with the King of Iraq have been carried to a point at which a satisfactory accord has been reached. The Prime Minister of Iraq, who had to leave London some days ago, is now on his way back, and it is hoped that as soon as he returns an agreement will be signed. Pending its signature I regret that I cannot furnish the House with any detailed information on the subject.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYWhen the signature is received, will the right hon. Gentleman be in a position to make a statement in this House in the first place before anything appears in the Press officially?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI think it is contemplated that the new agreement, when signed, will either be laid as a White Paper or presented in some form. It will have to be presented to the Council of the League of Nations, and I will look up the procedure which was followed in cases of similar agreements before.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYMay I ask the Prime Minister whether the House will have an opportunity of discussing this agreement?
§ Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSIs it anticipated that there will be a reduction in expenditure as a result of the agreement?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI must have notice of a question of that kind.
§ Mr. HARMSWORTHWill it relieve us of any part of our responsibilities?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREI can add nothing to my reply pending the final conclusion of this agreement and its signature, and it would be very improper for me to say anything.