§ 67. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will invite the French army association football team to visit Britain in order that a series of games can be played with representative teams in several parts of the country during the months of April and May; and what other arrangements does he intend to make in order that the interest shown in France can be reciprocated here?
§ Mr. StanleyIt has been the practice for many years for the British, French and Belgian Armies to play association football matches annually, alternately in London, Paris and Brussels. This tournament is suspended for the duration of the war. The match recently played in Paris between the French and British Armies was specially arranged in response to an invitation from the French authorities. Owing to the lateness of the season and possible military exigencies, the French military authorities do not desire the arrangement of an immediate return match, but it is hoped that the French Army will be able to play a return game next season in London if circumstances permit.
§ Mr. ThorneCan the right hon. Gentleman arrange for a football match between the two Cabinets?