HC Deb 13 June 1934 vol 290 c1674
2. Mr. MANDER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will consider the advisability of proposing to the Council of the League of Nations that a general agreement should be entered into by all States prohibiting the recruitment of their nationals in the armies, navies, and air forces of States involved in a dispute under the consideration of the League Council, either for training or fighting purposes?

Mr. EDEN

The suggestion put forward by the hon. Member is open to serious objections, and my right hon. Friend does not therefore feel able to put it forward.

Mr. MANDER

Is it not just as important to regulate the export of trained personnel as of arms?

Mr. EDEN

There are many objections, and I can give the hon. Member one. It is not wise to do anything that might discourage nations in dispute from referring the matter to the Council.

Mr. MACUISTEN

If there are a certain number of individuals who have a conscientious satisfaction in engaging in fighting, should not they have the same privileges as those who have a conscientious objection to it?