HC Deb 17 November 1931 vol 259 cc641-2
2. Mr. BATEY

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, during his proposed visit to the Dominions, he will travel alone or how many officials will accompany him; and whether any estimate of the cost has been arrived at?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)

I have not yet settled who will come with me, bat my intention is that the number of officials accompanying me should in any case be small, and also limited to those who have special knowledge of the questions likely to arise for discussion. No detailed estimate of the cost has yet been made.

Mr. BATEY

Are we to understand that this trip has been agreed upon and that no estimate of cost has been formed?

Mr. THOMAS

No, my hon. Friend must not understand that. He must understand that the value and importance of a general Empire agreement outweigh any consideration as to the mere cost of the passage.

Mr. HANNON

Will the right hon. Gentleman make any statement to the House before his visit to the Dominions as to the proposals he will submit when he gets there?

Mr. SPEAKER

That question does not arise.

Mr. MAXTON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say who will look after things here while he is away?

Mr. THOMAS

There are such numbers of competent substitutes that I am sure there will be no difficulty.

3. Mr. ALBERY

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs if he can say what Dominions he proposes to visit prior to the Imperial Conference; when, approximately, he expects to leave this country; and how long he expects to be absent?

Mr. THOMAS

No definite plans have yet been made, but if my hon. friend will repeat his question later, I shall be glad to answer it.

Mr. ALBERY

Is the inability of the right hon. Gentleman to answer the question in detail due to the fact that it is proposed to hold the Conference at an earlier date?

Mr. THOMAS

No, Sir. I may take this opportunity of saying that the date suggested has been fixed in order to be sure of the attendance of all the Dominions. There could be nothing more fatal, in my judgment, than any Dominion finding itself unable to attend. It is far better to fix a date for all than to be premature.