HC Deb 22 May 1928 vol 217 c1659
69. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if any action is being taken, under Article 11 of the Covenant of the League of Nations, to settle the dispute between Japan and China arising out of the fighting between Japanese and Chinese troops at Tsinanfu; and what part His Majesty's Government is taking, or has taken, in the deliberations of the Council of the League on this question?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I am unable to state what, if any, action is being taken in connection with the telegram addressed to the Secretariat-General of the League of Nations, under paragraph 2 of Article 11 of the Covenant. No deliberations of the Council on the question are in progress.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Have not the Government taken any action to have a meeting of the Council to deal with this matter?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

It has nothing whatever to do with His Majesty's Government. It lies entirely with the Acting Chairman, who I believe is the Chinese representative, and the Secretary-General to call a meeting.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Is the hon. Gentleman's interpretation of the Covenant that, in the case of hostilities threatening between two States members of the League, His Majesty's Government has no locus stanch?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

No hostilities threaten at the moment. Fighting at Shangtung has come to an end.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the situation has been most serious, and have we done nothing to act at all?

Forward to