HC Deb 30 November 1927 vol 211 cc472-3
4. Colonel DAY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when the second section of the League of Nations Report on the traffic in women and children will be published?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

Unless for any reason the Council of the League decides otherwise, Part II of the Report will be published immediately after the meeting of the Council of the League of Nations, which takes place next month.

Colonel DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why this second Section has been suppressed so long?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

I take exception to the word "suppressed." The second Section dealt with the facts concerning the inquiries held in particular countries, and it was thought a matter of ordinary courtesy to the Governments of these countries to give them an opportunity of making any observations they want before that part of the Report was published. I myself, as rapporteur, proposed an earlier publication than will now take place, but it was pointed out by another member of the Council, who represents a State not immediately concerned, that some of the Powers who were concerned would not have time to reply if that earlier date was fixed, and accordingly the present arrangement was made by the Council.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is it not a fact that we have a perfectly clean record in the matter?

Sir A. CHAMBERLAIN

There is nothing in Part I of the Report, which has been published, or in Part II which reflects on the conduct of the administration of this country.