14. Mr. V. ADAMSasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is now the policy of His Majesty's Government towards the maintenance of the independence of the states of Austria and Czechoslovakia?
§ Mr. EDENIn regard to Austria I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I returned to the hon. and gallant Member for Nuneaton (Lieut.-Commander Fletcher) on 20th May, to which I have nothing to add. As regards Czechoslovakia, the policy of His Majesty's Government is that which results from loyal adherence to the Covenant of the League of Nations.
§ Mr. MANDERCan these two countries rely on receiving the same magnificent protection that Abyssinia obtained?
Mr. V. ADAMSWill my right hon. Friend tell me whether His Majesty's Government would regard any violent interference with these two States as an unfriendly act? If my right hon. Friend cannot answer that, may I ask him whether he is aware of the tranquillising effect that a clear affirmative answer from Great Britain would have in Central Europe?
§ Mr. EDENI am aware that these are very delicate questions and I should like to see them on the Paper.