70. Sir F. HALLasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affaffirs whether, in view of the terms of the Treaty of Versailles, any explanation has been sought from the German Government as to the extensive manufacture of gas bombs by Germany at the Schichau works?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Godfrey Locker-Lampson)I have no information regarding the alleged illegal manufacture of gas bombs at the Schischau works at Elbing, other than that which has appeared in the public Press.
Sir F. HALLDoes my right hon. Friend not think it advisable that information should be obtained as to what is the reason for the manufacture of this large number of gas bombs?
§ Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONThis is only the question of a Press report.
Sir F. HALLWill my right hon. Friend be good enough to take steps to find out whether there is any truth in the report?
§ Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONWe have asked for a report on the subject from our Ambassador in Berlin.
§ Mr. W. THORNEWhat is the psychology of a bomb?
§ Mr. RENNIE SMITHIn view of the allegations made by M. Briand at the last Assembly of the League of Nations, concerning this particular point, will the right hon. Gentleman not have a special inquiry made?
§ Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONNo; it is not our business to have any inquiry made, but, if necessary, the League's.