§ 4. Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to what extent the situation in Palestine, in Spain, and in China, respectively, is engaging the active attention of the League of Nations; and what efforts are being put forward by His Majesty's Government to make the machinery of the League effective towards achieving peace among the nations?
§ Mr. EdenAs regards Palestine, the hon. Member will be aware that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies is proceeding to Geneva to attend a meeting of the Permanent Mandates Commission of the League, which will consider the report and recommendations of the Royal Commission. The approval of the Council of the League is required for any alteration in the terms of the Mandate. The appeal of the Spanish Government to the Council of the League concerning the situation in Spain has been discussed by the Council on two occasions. On each occasion the Council gave general approval to the work and aims of the Non-Intervention Committee. No appeal under any article of the Covenant has been made to the Council arising out of the present situation in China. As regards the second part of the question, I have nothing to add to the statement which I made on this subject on Wednesday last.
§ Mr. ManderIn view of the serious position in the Far East, may I ask whether it is proposed to call the Council together for the purpose of dealing with that situation?
§ Mr. EdenThe situation is admittedly serious, but, as at present advised, I am not prepared to take the initiative in that matter.
§ Mr. ManderIf the Chinese Government desire a meeting of the Council of the League, will the British Government do all they can to support them?
§ Mr. EdenThat is another matter. We must remember in this matter that the most important Powers, the United 3068 States and Japan, are not members of the League.
§ Mr. ManderIs it not the case that Article 17 contains machinery for nonmembers to take their place at the Council table, and that that is no excuse at all?