HC Deb 18 May 1938 vol 336 cc381-2
15. Mr. Noel-Baker

asked the Prime Minister whether he will lay a White Paper before the House giving the full text of the correspondence between His Majesty's Government and the Government of Mexico concerning the questions which have led to the present rupture of diplomatic relations?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir. A White Paper containing the correspondence up to date will be issued as soon as possible.

Mr. Benn

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether, in this Mexican correspondence, the Cabinet has kept in close touch with American opinion on the subject?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir, I understand that that is so.

Mr. Benn

How is it that the hon. Gentleman is so well informed on Cabinet matters, when I addressed the question to the Leader of the House?

Mr. Butler

There is liaison between us and, as far as possible, I am aware of the policy, and that is what I have given to the House.

Mr. Maxton

rose—

Mr. Benn

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker. May I ask you whether, when the acting-Prime Minister and Deputy-Leader of the House is present, and the question is addressed to him, I am entitled to have an answer from him on a Cabinet matter?

Mr. Speaker

The right hon. Gentleman has already had three answers.

Mr. Maxton

Do you realise, Mr. Speaker, that the right hon. Gentleman has asked three questions while I have been trying to ask one?

Mr. Speaker

I quite realise that fact.

Mr. Maxton

Will that one now be in Order? Do I understand from the Under-Secretary that it is his statement that the Cabinet is responsible for this preposterous action with reference to Mexico?

Mr. Butler

The Cabinet is certainly responsible for any instructions that are given on such matters of foreign policy.

Mr. Maxton

I thought it was just a stupid blunder.