§ 8. Mr. A. Hendersonasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the 1052 United States Government have expressed their willingness to enter into discussions with a view to securing an effective limitation and reduction of armaments; and whether, for such a purpose, His Majesty's Government will enter into discussion with the United States Government in order that definite action may be taken?
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)I presume the hon. Member has in mind Mr. Cordell Hull's recent statement that the United States were prepared to join with other nations in moving resolutely towards bringing about an effective agreement on limitation and progressive reduction of armaments. As I have already said, His Majesty's Government are in full agreement with these sentiments, and they will neglect no suitable opportunity of co-operating with the United States and other Governments to attain these objects.
§ Mr. HendersonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that on Thursday of last week a high official of the State Department at Washington stated that the United States Government was willing to enter into discussions with regard to the possibility of disarmament; and will not His Majesty's Government respond to that invitation?
§ The Prime MinisterIf any invitation is addressed to us by the United States Government, we shall certainly respond to it.