HC Deb 14 July 1930 vol 241 cc905-6
17. Mr. BARR

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received a statement on the subject of minorities, signed by 68 Members of Parliament., asking him to place on the agenda of the forthcoming Assembly of the League of Nations an item proposing a commission of inquiry into the working of the minority treaties; whether he has been able to give this subject his consideration; and, if so, with what result?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

Yes, Sir. I have received the widely-signed memorial referred to in my hon. Friend's question, and it is now receiving my careful atten tion. The attitude to be adopted by His Majesty's Government in this matter is at present under consideration.

Mr. BARR

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that of some 40 petitions presented last year only two were considered by the Council, and will the right hon. Gentleman bear that in mind so as, if possible, to get more effective and more swiftly-moving machinery?

Mr. HENDERSON

I will bear that in mind, but the hon. Member's information is new.

Mr. BECKETT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his predecessor in the last Government considered memoranda on the Polish minorities sent to him by invitation of Members of this House; and has any decision been come to in the Foreign Office on action to be taken with regard to the treatment of these minorities?

Mr. HENDERSON

That is an entirely separate question and must be put on the Paper.