HC Deb 20 December 1933 vol 284 cc1278-9
13. Mr. MANDER

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will give an assurance that the Government has no intention under any circumstances of surrendering the mandate for Tanganyika to any other Power?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

It has been repeatedly stated that His Majesty's Government have never contemplated any surrender of the mandate for Tanganyika.

Mr. MANDER

I understand there is no question whatever of considering its return to Germany in any circumstances?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I have given a very frank and straight answer many times. That is the firm, considered and determined view of the Government.

Mr. M AXTON

Are there not more than the Government concerned in this matter?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I think it is the firm determination of the whole of this country.

Mr. MAXTON

Is this country only concerned? Is the mandate obtained from this country or from some other source?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

The hon. Gentleman is quite unaware of the terms on which mandates were granted. A mandate cannot be surrendered except by the consent of the mandatory to whom it has been given.

Lieut.-Colonel SANDEMAN ALLEN

Can my right hon. Friend confirm the attitude taken up by the hon. Member for West Derby (Sir J. Sandeman Allen) in Tanganyika?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I do not quite know what his attitude was.