HC Deb 19 March 1940 vol 358 cc1802-3
45. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Prime Minister what arrangements had been made for the despatch of Anglo-French troops to the assistance of Finland; and whether he will give an assurance that no despatch of troops will be made in the future to assist any State with which we have no treaty obligations until after consideration by Parliament?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)

As regards the first part of the Question, I would ask the hon. Member to await the statement which I shall shortly be making. As regards the second part, I cannot give any undertaking which might hamper the strategy of the Allies in time of war. I would, however, point out that this country had obligations towards Finland, as a member of the League of Nations and in virtue of the Resolution adopted by the Council of the League on 14th December last.

Mr. Sorensen

Could I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether we are to deduce from his reply that it is possible for this country to send troops to some other country with which we have no direct treaty obligations and thus become involved with some other country, against which we have not declared war?

47. Mr. G. Strauss

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the end of the Russo-Finnish conflict, arrangements are being made for the return of the war material sent by the British and French Governments?

The Prime Minister

This question has not been overlooked, but I am not in a position to make a statement in regard to it to-day.