§ 45. Mr. HARRISasked the Prime Minister whether the First Lord of the Admiralty has a free hand to negotiate with the other Powers concerned for disarmament; whether there are any limits to his discretion; and whether, if an agreement is arrived at, such agreement will be subject to the confirmation of the House of Commons?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Churchill)The delegates from this country will act on lines approved by His Majesty's Government. They have been given the usual latitude in regard to matters of detail, but will refer to His Majesty's Government on any large question of principle. It would be premature to make any statement on the last part of the question until the form of the agreement is known
§ Mr. HARRISWill the First Lord have the same powers which Lord Balfour had at Washington?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI think it is easier to answer the question directly than by comparison, and I have already answered it directly.