HC Deb 20 June 1938 vol 337 cc687-8
23. Mr. Boothby

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the prejudicial effect that external propaganda will have on the conclusion of a satisfactory agreement between the Czechoslovakian Government and the Sudeten Germans, His Majesty's Government will make proposals to the interested Governments in Europe with a view to securing a cessation of all such propaganda during the period of the negotiations?

Mr. Butler

I would refer my hon. Friend to the statements made by the Prime Minister in the House on 23rd May and 14th June. The principal concern of His Majesty's Government has been, as it remains, to use all their influence, wherever it could be effective, on the side of restraint, the absence of which, as my hon. Friend rightly points out, must increase the difficulty of reaching a successful issue to the negotiations referred to.

Mr. Boothby

Have His Majesty's Government made any diplomatic representations?

Mr. Butler

I think the answer I have just given should serve the purpose that my hon. Friend desires.

Mr. A. V. Alexander

May we take it that the word "restraint" will not be used in restraint of liberty?