§ 15. Mr. Shinwellasked the Prime Minister whether the Anglo-Italian conversations will include any reference to 1508 the possibility of ending the war in Spain through mediation?
§ The Prime MinisterThis question hardly seems suitable for inclusion in the agenda of the forthcoming discussions, but the possibilities of mediation will certainly not be overlooked if any favourable opportunity should arise.
32. Mr. J. J. Davidsonasked the Prime Minister the date on which consultations were held between representatives of the Dominions and His Majesty's Government with regard to the proposed negotiations with Italy; and the attitude of the Dominion representatives?
§ 45. Lieut.-Commander Fletcherasked the Prime Minister whether the Dominion Governments were consulted before the Anglo-Italian conversations were initiated; whether they will be kept acquainted with the course of the conversations which will affect an Empire route through the Mediterranean; and whether no undertakings concerning the Mediterranean will be finally entered into without the assent of the Dominion Governments?
§ The Prime MinisterHis Majesty's Governments in the Dominions have been kept fully informed by telegraph of the intentions of His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom as regards the opening of discussions with Italy. They will be kept informed of all developments, and will, therefore, have every opportunity of expressing their views. The question of assent on any particular question would only arise in the event of a Dominion being asked to assume active obligations.
Mr. DavidsonIs the Prime Minister aware that very strong objections have been taken to the attitude of His Majesty's Government by Dominion representatives, in speeches of which I will send him a copy?
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherHave any views been expressed by any Dominion Government in regard to the Mediterranean, in connection with these conversations?
§ The Prime MinisterI must have notice of that question.