HC Deb 19 April 1939 vol 346 cc337-8
1. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether it is proposed, in connection with mutual-aid arrangements with other countries, that the obligations shall be reciprocal and the treaty open to adherence by all countries, including Germany?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)

As I informed the Leader of the Opposition yesterday, His Majesty's Government are still in consultation with other interested Governments, and I am not yet in a position to add anything to recent statements.

Mr. Mander

Would the Prime Minister be good enough to bear in mind that if he could give an assurance on the lines of the question, it would do a good deal to avoid the charge of encirclement which is being made by Herr Hitler?

The Prime Minister

I doubt whether that charge would be put aside as easily as that.

2. Mr. Arthur Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government will bear in mind the desirability of including China and other Far Eastern countries in any combination of Governments for the purpose of resisting aggression?

The Prime Minister

Yes, Sir.