§ 54. Mr. Bennasked the Prime Minister what passed at the interview between the Foreign Secretary and the Emperor of Abyssinia at their meeting last week; and, in particular, whether an explanation was given of the Government's policy as to the recognition of an Italian empire?
§ The Prime MinisterI have no statement to make on the subject of the interview between the Emperor of Abyssinia and the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs which took place on 2nd March.
§ Mr. BennIs the Prime Minister aware that the Foreign Secretary in another place has already intimated the Government's policy? I am asking here what the policy is.
§ The Prime MinisterThe right hon. Gentleman asked me what passed at the interview.
§ Mr. BennIf the right hon. Gentleman will look at the question, he will see that it asks for an explanation of the Government's attitude.
§ The Prime MinisterThe right hon. Gentleman is mistaken; he asked whether an explanation was given in the course of the interview.
§ Mr. BennInasmuch as a partial explanation has already been given by the Foreign Secretary in another place, may the House of Commons hear something of it? May not the House of Commons know what the policy of the Government is?
§ The Prime MinisterThe right hon. Gentleman must content himself with the explanation given by the Foreign Secretary.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Acland-TroyteWould it not be as well if the right hon. Gentleman opposite read his questions before he put them down?