§ 46. Lieut.-Commander Fletcherasked the Prime Minister whether the British Government still adheres to the principle that mandated territories are not a form of tenure held from the League of Nations and that that body can neither transfer them nor take them away, although the unanimous consent of the League Council would be necessary before a transfer could be effected?
§ The Prime MinisterThe position stated in the question is not a principle but a legal interpretation of the situation. It does not appear to differ from the interpretation already adopted by His Majesty's Government, which has been made plain on various occasions in the House.
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherAm I to understand from the reply that the Government accept that legal interpretation?
§ The Prime MinisterPerhaps the hon. and gallant Member will carefully consider the answer I have given.
§ Mr. BennCan the Prime Minister say what machinery he envisages for the transfer of mandates, if such a thing were contemplated?
§ The Prime MinisterPerhaps the right hon. Member will put that question down.