HC Deb 27 June 1938 vol 337 c1515
11. Mr. Arthur Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the Anglo-Italian Agreement and the importance of maintaining close co-operation between Great Britain and France, His Majesty's Government have represented to the Italian Government the importance of resuming negotiations with France?

Mr. Butler

His Majesty's Government would welcome an improvement in the relations between France and Italy such as might be expected to follow a resumption of the negotiations between the two countries. The Italian Government are fully aware of our views on this question. At the same time it will be appreciated that this is a matter which can only be settled between the parties concerned.

Mr. Henderson

Is it not a fact that the Anglo-Italian Agreement will be completely worthless unless Italy puts her relations with France on a satisfactory basis?

Mr. Butler

As I have said in my answer, we should welcome improved relations between France and Italy.