HC Deb 23 June 1920 vol 130 cc2204-5W
Mr. A. T. DAVIES

asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is proposed to advise the Governments of Sweden and Finland to refer the dispute over the Aaland Islands to the arbitration of the League of Nations; whether that has already been done; and, if so, with what result?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The Secretary of State, acting in exercise of the friendly right conferred by Article XI of the Covenant of the League of Nations, has brought to the attention of the Council of the League the case of the Aaland Islands as a matter affecting international relations, which unfortunately threatens to disturb the good understanding between nations upon which peace depends. He has informed the Governments of Sweden and Finland of the action which he felt it his duty to take; and both Governments have expressed their satisfaction that the case will now be examined without delay.