HC Deb 16 March 1938 vol 333 cc410-1
46. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the forthcoming Anglo-Italian negotiations, it is still the view of His Majesty s Government that the colonial question is not one that can be considered in isolation, as a number of other countries would be involved?

The Prime Minister

I do not anticipate that the Anglo-Italian conversations will be concerned with this subject. His Majesty's Government have not altered the view expressed in the Anglo-French communiqué which I read to the House on 30th November last—to the effect that the colonial question was not one which could be considered in isolation, and moreover would involve a number of other countries.

Mr. Henderson

May I ask the Prime Minister whether the German annexation of Austria will prejudice immediate discussions on the colonial question?

The Prime Minister

Obviously in present circumstances nothing further can be done in that direction.