Sir J. D. REESasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether Danzig is, and, if so, to what extent it is, under the protection of the League of Nations; and what practical control, if any, the latter body has over the former port?
Mr. HARMSWORTHThe free city of Danzig is under the protection of the1556W League of Nations to the extent that its constitution is placed under the guarantee of that body in accordance with the provisions of the Treaty of Versailles. Further, the League is permanently represented in the free city by a High Commissioner appointed by itself. The port of Danzig is controlled and administered by a harbour board which was set up in accordance with the terms of a treaty between Poland and the free city of 9th November, 1920. Any differences arising between Poland and the free city in regard to that treaty must be submitted to the decision of the High Commissioner who can, if he deems it necessary, refer the matter to the Council of the League. The two parties retain the right of appeal to the Council of the League.