HC Deb 21 November 1939 vol 353 cc1028-9
100. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether he is now able to make a statement with reference to the conference of the Inter-Governmental Committee on Refugees recently held in Washington, at the invitation of the President of the United States of America, to discuss the European refugee problem?

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Butler)

The conference of the vice-chairmen of the Inter-Governmental Committee for Refugees was held in Washington from 17th October to 26th October at the invitation of President Roosevelt. My right hon. Friend the Paymaster-General, chairman of the committee, attended as the representative of His Majesty's Government. Full advantage was taken of the opportunity to discuss on an international basis the large-scale settlement of refugees in the changed circumstances due to the war. Agreement was reached on all the major issues which arose.

Mr. Mander

Can any of the resolutions that were passed be published?

Mr. Butler

I will refer the hon. Member's request to the committee.

Mr. Gallacher

Is it not the case that the Government have decided to drop all idea of supplying any funds to these refugees?