HC Deb 06 July 1927 vol 208 cc1242-3
5. Mr. HARRIS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is now in a position to give any date for the termination of the occupation by the Allies of the occupied German territory; and whether the matter has been, or is being, discussed at Geneva?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

The question of fixing a date for the termination of the occupation of the Rhineland by Allied troops was not discussed at Geneva. The circumstances in which the Rhineland is to be evacuated are, as the hon. Member is doubtless aware, laid down in Articles 428 to 431 of the Treaty of Versailles.

Mr. HARRIS

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that nine years after the Armistice would be a good time at which to terminate this military occupation, and that it would make Europe feel that a peace atmosphere has been reached? Does he not think that that would be a proper subject for discussion at Geneva?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

No, Sir, I do not think any useful purpose would be served by discussing it at Geneva at this time; and, as it was not raised by anyone else, I suppose that other people were of the same opinion.

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