HC Deb 20 May 1936 vol 312 cc1174-6
10. Lieut. - Commander FLETCHER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, as declared at Stresa, the common policy of Great Britain, France, and Italy continues to be inspired by recognition of the necessity for maintaining the independence and integrity of Austria; and, if so, what steps are being taken to implement this policy and whether it is in any way affected by the recent introduction of conscription in Austria in dereliction of the terms of the treaty of St. Germain?

Mr. EDEN

The last time that Great Britain, France and Italy discussed the maintenance of the independence and integrity of Austria was at the Stresa Conference in April last year. There has been no proposal to modify the conclusion reached at the Stresa Conference on this subject, nor have any of the three Governments declared their intention to depart from the policy therein laid down. In regard to the second part of the question, I would refer to the answer given to the hon. and gallant Member yesterday.

Several HON. MEMBERS

rose—

Mr. SPEAKER

In a matter like this it is fairer to the Minister to put questions on the Paper.

19. Mr. COCKS

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what obligations have been incurred by His Majesty's Government to defend the independence and integrity of Austria?

Mr. EDEN

I would refer the hon. Member to the Covenant of the League of Nations.

Mr. COCKS

Is the right hon. Gentlemen aware that, as long as Austria remains an Italian dependency, the British people are not concerned?

Mr. SPEAKER

I have suggested that hon. Members should put their questions on the Paper.

Mr. COCKS

Is that not a supplementary question?

Mr. SPEAKER

I think that you should put such questions on the Paper.

Mr. COCKS

On a point of Order. I should like to ask for your Ruling, as this is important. Are you ruling that on foreign affairs, there must be no supplementary questions, and that they must always be put down?

Mr. SPEAKER

No, I am not ruling anything of the kind. I do not wish in any way to curtail the rights of Members to put supplementary questions, but there are occasions when it is hardly fair on the Minister to expect him to answer them, and it would be better if hon. Members would put their questions on the Paper.