HC Deb 16 May 1928 vol 217 cc1009-10
10. Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what are the duties of the officials of the League of Nations branch in London; and whether there are similar offices in the other capitals of Europe and the world?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I understand that the main duties of the League of Nations office in London are to supply information respecting the aims and work of the League and to provide clerical assistance for senior members of the League Secretariat when on duty in London. This office also assists the various departments of the League Secretariat in obtaining such statistics or other information as they may require from this country. Similar offices are established in Paris, Rome, Tokio and Berlin.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

In view of the necessity for checking expenditure does the hon. Gentleman consider that these offices are necessary and could not the duties be performed by one instead of half-a-dozen officials and without renting a large house for the purpose?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

My hon. and gallant Friend must remember that a very large part of the outlay is paid by other nations. We pay only quite a small proportion of the cost of the London offices.

Mr. DAY

Can the hon. Gentleman say what proportion we pay?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Off-hand, I should say about one-sixth.