§ 41. Mr. MANDERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why it has been decided to abandon the conversations in London in connection with the Disarmament Conference, and what the position now is?
§ The LORD PRESIDENT of the COUNCIL (Mr. Baldwin)The conversations in question have not been abandoned, though it has been impossible, owing to pressure of other matters, to initiate them during the opening stages of the Economic Conference. So far as His Majesty's Government are concerned, they are convinced that such conversations are essential for the good progress of the work of the Disarmament Conference. They believe that this conviction is shared by the President of the Conference and by the great majority of the Delegations, and they trust that in spite of unavoidable delay it may be possible shortly to arrange for exchanges of views to take place.
§ Mr. MANDERCan my right hon. Friend say whether there is any foundation for the statement that the conference is shortly to adjourn until the autumn, and whether such a proceeding would not be disastrous?
§ Mr. BALDWINI would rather wait for confirmation.