HC Deb 31 May 1933 vol 278 c1860
7. Mr. COCKS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Government proposes to take any action, or to propose any action, to the Council of the League of Nations against the aggressor in the Sino-Japanese conflict?

Sir J. SIMON

The initiative in this matter lies with the advisory committee appointed by the Assembly of the League of Nations.

Mr. COCKS

Does this meant that no action is to be taken, and, if so, does it not show the futility of not deciding which is the aggressor nation until many months after the aggression, and would it not be better to draw up beforehand a definition of what constitutes aggression so that these cases could be decided at the time?

Sir J. SIMON

I think it is open to grave doubt whether the advisory committee would be able to act more promptly.

Sir NAIRNE STEWART SANDEMAN

When are we going to recognise the new State?

Mr. MANDER

Does this mean that the Government do not take their obligations seriously under the Covenant?

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