HC Deb 14 March 1912 vol 35 cc1396-7W
Mr. FIELD

asked the First Lord of the Treasury whether he is aware that early in February last President Taft applied to the House of Representatives for several thousands of pounds as a preliminary expense fund for inviting the Powers to join in promoting an international conference on the questions involved in the worldwide high cost of living; and whether, taking this fact in the economic situation into consideration and in view of the general unrest in strikes in Great Britain and elsewhere which are mainly owing to this cause, he will advise His Majesty's Government to co-operate with President Taft and assist to bring to a successful issue the co-operation of the Governments of the other Great Powers in this connection and such other issues as may arise therefrom?

The PRIME MINISTER

His Majesty's Government have not received an invitation to join in this proposed conference. If an invitation is addressed to them, His Majesty's Government will be glad to consider to what extent it will be possible for them to co-operate with the United States Government.