HC Deb 16 March 1932 vol 263 cc258-9
9. Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can give any information regarding the Committee for the Harmonisation of the League of Nations Covenant with the Kellogg Pact; whether the committee has yet been appointed; and who is the British representative thereon?

Sir J. SIMON

The Council of the League of Nations have decided that this committee may be convened by the Secretary-General for such date as he may fix in consultation with the President of the Disarmament Conference, the acting President of the Council and the Rapporteur. It has not yet been convened, and the British representative has not yet been appointed.

Mr. WILLIAMS

May we take it that the British representative will be appointed shortly?

Sir J. SIMON

I have not any precise information, but I have no doubt whatever that he will be appointed as soon as ever he can usefully be appointed.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Am I to understand from that reply that the Government are waiting for the committee to be convened before they appoint their representative?

Sir J. SIMON

I do not want my hon. Friend to think that that is necessarily so; we have not the least wish to create delay.