17. Mr. VYVYAN ADAMSasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is the policy of His Britannic Majesty's Government to support the independence of Austria?
§ Sir J. SIMONThe Government are watching the situation in Austria with the closest attention. The attitude of His Majesty's Government was stated by me to the House on 21st December last and that statement still represents the policy of His Majesty's Government in the matter.
§ Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSIs it possible to preserve the independence of Austria if we abolish our Army, Navy, and Air Force?
§ 21. Sir A. CHAMBERLAINasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is now in a position to give the House any further information as to Austro-German relations?
§ Sir J. SIMONMy right hon. Friend will have seen in the Press a summary of the reply returned by the German Government to the recent démarche of the Austrian Government. I have no further official information but I understand that this reply is now being considered by the Austrian Government. My right hon. Friend will appreciate that, in these circumstances, I cannot make any further statement at the present time.
§ Mr. G. NICHOLSONWill my right hon. Friend say that His Majesty's Government attach the greatest importance to the fair treatment of Austria in this connection?
§ Sir J. SIMONI think the answer I gave on 21st December covers that matter clearly and fairly.