§ 16. Mr. Dayasked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty' s Government are satisfied that the League of Nations, as at present constituted, can be helpful in furthering the foreign policy of His Majesty's Government; and, if not, whether it is proposed at an early date to suggest some further alteration in its present constitution and /or objects?
§ Mr. ButlerAlthough it must be recognised on all sides that circumstances have in the past imposed upon the League tasks which were beyond its powers, His Majesty' s Government are fully aware of the value of the League's organisation for the furtherance of international consultation and collaboration and they will neglect no practicable means of maintaining and extending its usefulness. The question of amendments to the Covenant was discussed at length by the League Assembly last September, and His Majesty' s Government do not propose at present to suggest any alteration in the League' s constitution or objects.
§ Mr. DayCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the policy of the League to carry out with scrupulous respect all the Treaty obligations is one which is accepted by His Majesty' s Government?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerDo His Majesty's Government still adhere to the statement made in Geneva at the Assembly last September by the representative of the Government concerning the Covenant?
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir.
§ Mr. SorensenIs it at all likely that any League can succeed while national egotism is what it is?
§ Mr. ButlerI wish there were not so much national egotism.