§ 45. Mr. MANDERasked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of appointing a committee to consider the practicability of the establishment of an international aerial police force under the League of Nations, as proposed by the French Government, as a safeguard against the misuse of civil aviation for military purposes?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe question of the establishment of an international police force under the League of Nations was discussed in this House on the Motion introduced by the hon. Member on 13th December, 1933. On that occasion the Lord Privy Seal explained the reasons why the establishment of such a force is not practicable or desirable at the present time. I cannot do better than refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's remarks on that occasion, which still represent the attitude of the Government. In the circumstances, the appointment of a committee to consider this question would not serve any useful purpose.
§ Mr. MANDERIs not this a matter which will come up again for discussion in connection with the Air Pact negotiations, and will the Government be prepared to give it their serious consideration in view of the fact that the French Government have put forward a scheme?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIt will not of necessity arise in any further negotiations on the Air Pact.
§ Mr. MANDERIs it not still before the air committee of the Disarmament Conference?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIt may be, but I am giving the present attitude of His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. PALINGIn view of the development of events in the last few weeks, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the circumstances are very different from those of 1933?