HC Deb 04 May 1927 vol 205 cc1595-6
1. Colonel DAY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if the convention has now been definitely concluded between the British and Mexican Governments for the adjustment of pecuniary claims for losses incurred by British subjects in Mexico between November, 1910 and 1920; if this convention has now been signed; and what action the Foreign Office has taken to notify all British subjects and claimants of the particulars that are required to formulate their claims under this convention?

The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir Austen Chamberlain)

A convention has been concluded for the adjustment of pecuniary claims for losses suffered by British subjects as a result of revolutionary or counter-revolutionary action in Mexico during the period November, 1910, to May, 1920. This convention has been signed, and has been duly ratified by the Mexican Senate. It now only awaits the formal exchange of ratifications before coming into force. A notice to claimants summarising the particulars which they should furnish was issued in the Press of this country, of the United States, and of Mexico, on the 31st March, and also appeared in the "London Gazette" of the 1st April and the "Board of Trade Journal" of the 7th April.

Colonel Day

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what was the composition of the Conference? Were there any British members?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I must have notice of that question.

Sir FREDRIC WISE

Can my right hon. Friend say what the total amount of the claims is?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

My hon. Friend does not really, I am sure, expect me to carry figures of that kind in my head, available at a moment's notice. If he will put a question on the Paper, I will see that I have them.

Colonel DAY

Does the convention cover indirect as well as direct claims?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I shall be much obliged if I may have notice of any supplementary questions on this question.

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