HC Deb 23 April 1936 vol 311 cc308-9
47. Mr. MANDER

asked the Prime Minister whether the Dominions have been consulted with regard to, and have approved of, the Government's policy with respect to mandated territories and its willingness to consider the return to Germany of some of these on certain conditions?

The PRIME MINISTER

The hon. Member is under a misapprehension. Far from expressing their willingness to consider the return to Germany of any mandated territory, His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom have frequently stated that they have not considered and are not considering the question at all. It follows that the question of consultation with the Dominions has not arisen.

Mr. MANDER

Can the Prime Minister say whether the attitude taken up by the Dominions is exactly the same as that of the British Government?

The PRIME MINISTER

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down to the Dominions Secretary. I have no reason to believe it is different.

Mr. SANDYS

Is the Prime Minister aware that the complete uncertainty in regard to the Government's intentions as to the future of the mandated territories, which has not been removed by the many speeches and declarations made by Ministers recently, is causing intense anxiety throughout the Empire?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, Sir, I am not.

Mr. WISE

Can the Prime Minister add a future assurance? He said the Government "are not considering" and "have not considered": can he not possibly add "will not consider"?

The PRIME MINISTER

I have answered the question on the Paper.

Mr. SHINWELL

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean that there will be no future discussion of any sort or kind on the future of the mandated territories?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am not dealing with the future at all. I am answering the question on the Paper.