HC Deb 01 June 1938 vol 336 cc2011-2
13. Mr. Benn

asked the Prime Minister when he expects the ratification of the Anglo-Italian Agreement?

The Prime Minister

As I stated in the House on 2nd May, the Agreement is not made subject to ratification, but it is provided in the body of the Protocol that its annexed instruments shall be brought into force on such a date as the two Governments shall together determine.

Mr. Benn

The Prime Minister has not approached the question I put, as to when precisely he expects that to occur.

The Prime Minister

I have answered the question the right hon. Gentleman put. I was asked when I expected the ratification of the Agreement. I pointed out that there was no question of ratification.

Mr. Benn

When does the Prime Minister expect the coming into force of the Agreement?

The Prime Minister

I am not in a position to say.

Mr. Benn

Then why did you not say that?

The Prime Minister

I was not asked that particular question.