§ 49. Mr. Arthur Hendersonasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the recent declaration of Mr. Cordell Hull, 1254 the United States Secretary of State, that the United States Government are ready at any time to join with other nations in a common effort to bring about a general limitation and reduction of armaments; and whether he will make a similar statement on behalf of His Majesty's Government?
§ The Prime MinisterI have seen in the Press a statement by Mr. Hull, in which he is reported to have said that while the United States are compelled, in a world in which the increased construction of armaments is a regrettable fact, to render adequate their military and naval establishments, they are ready at any time to join with other nations in a common effort to bring about a general limitation and reduction of armaments. I can assure the hon. Member that this is also the view of His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. HendersonMay I ask the Prime Minister whether he will consider the desirability of preparing the ground by arranging for the sending of a mission similar to the van Zeeland mission to make contacts with other Governments?
§ The Prime MinisterI am not sure that that is the best way of preparing the ground.
§ Mr. HendersonWill the right hon. Gentleman consider it?
§ The Prime MinisterI am always considering these things.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsHas my right hon. Friend's attention been drawn to the further statement of Mr. Cordell Hull protesting violently against the speech of Mr. Gilbert Murray at the National Liberal Club?
§ Mr. MacquistenWill my right hon. Friend also bear in mind that all efforts to reduce armaments have only led to increases?