HC Deb 08 May 1934 vol 289 cc923-4
66. Mr. MANDER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the present composition of the British delegation to the Disarmament Conference and when the last full meeting of the delegation was held?

Mr. EDEN

As the Disarmament Conference is not in session, it is impossible to give the present composition of the United Kingdom delegation. The composition of the United Kingdom delegation at the Disarmament Conference at Geneva has varied from time to time in accordance with the exigencies of the work at Geneva, and of the duties connected with the offices held by those who have at one time or another since 2nd February, 1932, been appointed as delegates or substitute delegates. It is customary for the delegates present at Geneva to meet for consultation when necessary. Apart from this, formal meetings of the full delegation are not held.

Mr. MANDER

Is it not a fact that the full British Delegation has not met for nearly a year, and is it not about time that the full British Delegation did hold a meeting to consider the policy?

Mr. EDEN

The hon. Member will appreciate that a full Delegation consists of a great many members of the Cabinet, and that they can hold meetings for consultation here.

Mr. MANDER

Is it not a fact, as I stated, that the full Delegation of the members officially appointed has not met for nearly a year?