HC Deb 28 October 1920 vol 133 cc1964-5W
Sir J. D. REES

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any Armenians are still supported by the British taxpayer at Bakouba; whether 1,000 tons of fuel were provided by the British Government for fuel for the Armenian railways; and, if so, how repayment of this sum is to be ensured?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The Armenians in question are now at Basra pending a final decision as to their repatriation. Negotiations as to this question are proceeding. Meanwhile His Majesty's Government are still inevitably responsible for their maintenance. 1,000 tons of fuel were recently supplied against repayment to the Armenian Government who were in urgent need of it for purposes of military transport in connection with their defensive operations against the Turkish Nationalists. The method of repayment is under arrangement.

Mr. KILEY

asked the Prime Minister what length of time has elapsed since President Wilson undertook to delimit the boundaries of Armenia; and how long it is proposed to wait before adopting other means of settling this question?

The PRIME MINISTER

President Wilson's willingness to undertake the task of delimiting the frontiers of Armenia was signified in a note addressed to the President of the Peace Conference by the United States Ambassador in Paris on 18th May. His decision is expected at an early date. I need scarcely add that no other means of settling the question have been considered.