§ 28. Mr. HANNONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if any date has been fixed for the hearing of the petition filed by Great Britain, France, Italy, and Japan at the registry of the Court of International Justice in relation to the Memel dispute against the 13 Lithuanian Government; and what expenditure will be incurred by this country as a party to this petition?
§ Mr. EDENThe case came before the Permanent Court early last week and the hearing is at present proceeding. His Majesty's Government are being represented by the legal adviser to the Foreign Office. So far as I am aware, a proportionate share of the total cost of preparing and printing the necessary documents,, and the travelling expenses of the United Kingdom representative, will be the only expense incurred.
§ Mr. HANNONCan the hon. Gentleman say approximately what amount that will add to the taxpayers' burdens?
§ Mr. HANNONIn cases of this kind where decisions are referred to the Court of International Justice, and where expense to the British taxpayer is involved, do not the Government always take into account what the amount will be?
§ Mr. EDENIn this ease, our interest arises from the fact that we are signatories of the Memel Convention which was signed in 1924, and we must fulfil our responsibilities.