HC Deb 25 April 1934 vol 288 cc1690-1
2. Mr. MANDER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will consider proposing to the Council of the League of Nations, in connection with the arrangements for the plebiscite in the Saar territory, that a special international police force should be recruited for the purpose?

4. Sir CHARLES CAYZER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will propose to the League of Nations that steps should be taken to postpone the holding of the plebiscite in the Saar territory if in the opinion of the League undue pressure has been brought, or appears likely to be brought, to bear upon the inhabitants of the Saar territory from any source prior to the holding of the plebiscite?

Sir J. SIMON

A committee of three was appointed by the League Council in January to report to the Council at its forthcoming session on the problem raised by the provisions of the Treaty of Versailles in regard to the Saar Plebiscite and to make recommendations as to their execution. The committee was, in particular, to study any suggestions as regards the maintenance of order during the period of the plebiscite that might be submitted to it by the Saar Governing Commission. It would obviously be premature for me to express any view until this report has been received and considered.

Mr. MANDER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware whether this proposal has received any consideration, or is being put forward?

Sir J. SIMON

I think that that is undoubtedly within the scope of the consideration of the committee of three.

Mr. JANNER

Have any representations been made to His Majesty's Government, in view of the statements in regard to the committee?

Sir J. SIMON

I do not think that that arises out of the question.

Sir C. CAYZER

If the plebiscite is held next year, will the influence of the British Government be exerted with the League of Nations to ensure that there is no possibility of victimisation of any section of the population in the Saar after the plebiscite has been held?

Sir J. SIMON

My hon. Friend will appreciate that the object of the committee of three is to consider what suggestions can be made as regards the maintenance of order, and that of course includes securing that the plebiscite is conducted fairly.

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