§ 2. Mr. DALTONasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether instructions have been given to the United Kingdom delegation to the League of Nations Assembly to support the proposed amendments of the covenant of the League, which were unanimously approved by the last Imperial Conference?
§ Captain EDENThis question was discussed with the chief representative of His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom at Geneva before his departure for the meeting of the Assembly, and it was decided that, as His Majesty's Government had not had an opportunity of considering the matter, the British representative should avoid committing them, especially as over 30 States have not yet submitted their observations. The best solution therefore appeared to be an adjournment, until next year, and I understand that this course has been adopted by the First Committee of the Assembly.
§ Mr. DALTONWas the consent of the Dominion Governments obtained before this departure was made by His Majesty's Government in this country?
§ Captain EDENYes, Sir. As soon as our delegation reached Geneva, a communication was at once held with the Dominion representatives explaining our position, and they expressed sympathy with it.
§ Mr. DALTONIs it not the case that at least one Dominion representative in the Committee discussion supported these amendments?
§ Captain EDENThe hon. Gentleman asked me if the Dominions had been informed, and I told him that they were informed before any discussion, took place.