HC Deb 13 December 1933 vol 284 cc343-4
5. Mr. GODFREY LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when he will be in a position to indicate to this House the policy of His Majesty's Government in regard to the reform of the League of Nations?

9. Mr. COCKS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the declaration of the Fascist Grand Council of Italy upon the subject of the League of Nations; and whether he can state the attitude of His Majesty's Government to any proposed alterations in the character and constitution of the League?

Mr. EDEN

I cannot add anything at present to the statement which my right hon. Friend made on this subject on the 11th December.

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Will my hon. Friend make an announcement to the House as soon as possible?

Mr. EDEN

I am afraid I could not indicate when it would be in the public interest to make a statement.

Mr. COCKS

Will His Majesty's Government set its face against any attempt to sabotage the League?

Mr. MANDER

Cannot the Government associate themselves wholeheartedly with the French declaration of policy in regard to support of the League of Nations? Are they not able to do that?

7. Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will approach the Government of the United States of America with a view to ascertaining what are the chief objections to-day of the American Government to membership of the League of Nations?

Mr. EDEN

No. Sir. My right hon. Friend regrets that he does not consider such a step would be either desirable or profitable.

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Is it the case that the chief deterrent, as far as the United States are concerned, lies in the sanctions of the Covenant? Would it not be possible for the Government to explore that aspect of the question?

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