HC Deb 13 November 1929 vol 231 cc2046-7W
Captain EDEN

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, under Article 6 of the Proposals for an Anglo-Egyptian Settlement, His Majesty's Government still regard themselves as accepting, as towards foreign Powers, the protection of foreign interests and minorities in Egypt as a responsibility inseparable from the special position which we claim in the country, as laid down in the declaration made by the then Prime Minister on 28th February, 1922; and, if not, whether they propose to address any new communication to foreign Powers on the subject?

Mr. HENDERSON

If, as a result of the present proposals, an Anglo-Egyptian Treaty is concluded, that instrument will replace the Declaration of 28th February, 1922, as a definition of the respective positions of the High Contracting Parties and of their obligations in regard to the protection both of foreign interests and of minorities in Egypt. As the communication to foreign Powers in March, 1922, specifically contemplated the eventual conclusion of such a treaty no new communication will be required.