HC Deb 08 March 1937 vol 321 cc779-81
10. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the recent speech of the German Ambassador at Leipzig; and whether he will make representations to the German Government that His Majesty's Government do not propose to transfer any British Colonies to Germany?

Viscount Cranborne

The answer to the first part of the question is: Yes, Sir. As regards the second part, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the statement made by my right hon. Friend in the course of his speech in the House on 2nd March, to which I have nothing to add.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Is it not the case that Ambassadors are accredited for the express purpose of discussing such matters as this with the Government to which they are accredited, instead of making them the subject of political speeches and propaganda?

Viscount Cranborne

I must say that the present procedure was unusual.

13. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the recent speech at Leipzig of the German Ambassador; and whether he will make representations as to the undesirability of his indulging in political activities inconsistent with his special diplomatic position?

25. Commander Locker - Lampson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to the speech of the German Ambassador at Leipzig demanding that colonies should be restored; and whether His Majesty's Government intend to make representations to prevent a recurrence of such actions inconsistent with diplomatic usage?

Viscount Cranborne

I have read a report of the speech in question, but I do not consider that any formal action in this matter is necessary or desirable.

Mr. Henderson

Is it not contrary to all diplomatic custom for an Ambassador to deliver a propaganda speech threatening war unless the German colonies are returned voluntarily? Is not that prejudicial to the successful carrying out of his diplomatic functions?

Mr. Speaker

That is the same question as that to which an answer has already been given to a supplementary question.

Mr. Henderson

Then may I ask the Minister whether he will answer the first part of my supplementary question?

Viscount Cranborne

Perhaps the hon. Member will repeat it.

Mr. Henderson

Is it not contrary to all diplomatic precedent—

Mr. Speaker

That has been answered in the answer to the supplementary question.

Mr. Henderson

I was going to put the second part. Is it not prejudicial to the successful carrying out of his ambassadorial functions for an Ambassador to make a propaganda speech threatening war?

Lieut.-Colonel Moore

Is not the Noble Lord aware that this matter was fully explained and the German version given, in a letter to the "Times" on 5th February?