38. Brigadier-General SPEARSasked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he will state the nature of the emergency which necessitates the retention in Paris of a staff directed by a major-general; and why this mission is maintained, in view of the fact that the presence of a single lieutenant-colonel in Paris previous to 1914 was considered sufficient to deal with the elaboration of plans necessitated by the imminence of a European war?
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSThe staff referred to, directed by a major-general, forms the British Section of the Allied Military Committee of Versailles, which, under the Presidency of Marshal Foch, is responsible for keeping the Allied Council of Ambassadors in Paris informed of the progress made in execution of the military clauses of the various Peace Treaties, and for advising on measures required to carry out the terms of treaties.
Brigadier-General SPEARSIn view of the fact that Paris and London are so close, is it not possible to refer these questions to London for consideration and only send over from London to Paris when an emergency arises?
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSI do not think that would be practicable. The 222 work in Paris is much heavier than in London, but in spite of that fact, the French find it necessary to keep a full general in London with three officers under him.
Mr. THOMASIs it not a fact that no notice is taken of this mission in France, and would it not save expense to do away with it?
Major-General Sir R. HUTCHISONIs it not a fact that the attitude of the French Government relating to the Ruhr was taken in opposition to the wishes of our Government, and is it necessary to keep this staff in Paris, which is really backing up the French attitude?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is making a speech.