HC Deb 12 December 1927 vol 211 c1844
49. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister whether he has now received a full account of the disarmament proposals of the Russian Government at Geneva; and what is to be the attitude of His Majesty's Government towards this proposal at the next conference or commission?

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, Sir. The proceedings at the recent meeting of the Preparatory Commission will receive careful consideration before the attitude of His Majesty's Government at the next meeting of the commission is determined.

Sir H. CROFT

May I ask whether it is not the fact that the Soviet Government could not exist for one week but for the armed forces that support it?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a matter for argument.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell the House whether it is a fact that the Soviet Government have offered to disarm in 12 months if we offer to follow suit in four years?

Mr. DUFF COOPER

Is the Prime Minister aware that the head of the Soviet Government, Comrade Stalin, in a speech last week stated that as war was inevitable between this country and Russia, the first duty of the Communist party was to increase their military organisation?

Mr. SPEAKER

That sounds like a declaration.