HC Deb 12 April 1937 vol 322 c603
27. Mr. Vyvyan Adams

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the legal date by which the new election in Danzig must be held?

Viscount Cranborne

According to the Danzig Constitution, the Popular Assembly is elected for a period of four years, but may in certain circumstances be dissolved before the end of that period. Elections for a new Popular Assembly must be held in the last month but one before the expiration of the four-year period. The term of office of the present Assembly expires in April, 1939, and the latest date on which a fresh election can constitutionally be held is, therefore, in February, 1939.

Mr. Adams

What body decides whether dissolution is to take place earlier?

Viscount Cranborne

The Popular Assembly puts an end to its term of office by its own decision or by a referendum.

Mr. Adams

Has the Council of the League anything to do with that decision?

Viscount Cranborne

No, I have said that it is by its own decision or by a referendum.