QUESTION IN HOUSE OF COMMONS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 19 December 1936, Page 15

QUESTION IN HOUSE OF COMMONS

GERMANY’S CAMPAIGN FOR COLONIES (United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) LONDON, 18th December. In the House of Commons Mr Anthony Eden, questioned concerning the German campaign for the restoration of colonies said that he had nothing to add to his statement of 9th December, in which he denied that Britain intended handing over the mandates.

Mr Morgan Jones (Labour), speaking in the Foreign Affairs debate drew attention to the gravity of the Far Eastern situation. He said that Japan had overrun China despite the League'. The Japanese-German agreement hid more sinister designs than had been made public. Mr Jones suggested that Britain might provide medical supplies for Madrid. He protested against granting belligerent rights to General Franco, and said that Labour would not countenance the banning of volunteers unless other nations similarlybanned them.

Mr Macnamara (Conservative) drawing attention to notices in German barracks calling for volunteers for General Franco, said that the internal, condition of Germany was so deplorable that a little firm pressure from Britain would probably persuade Herr Hitler to withdraw from Snain. Mr Eden said that it was the duty nf all nations to keep out of the Spanish conflict. Frankly, non-interven-tion had not realised expectations, but despite its shortcomings and blatant breaches it reduced the risks of a European war. Mr Eden added that it had been a most difficult year. He did not wish the House to adjourn for Christmas in a spirit of gloom. Britain s position in Europe was certainly better than last year. ' .... The House adjourned until loin January.