asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether Hafez Afifi Bey, acting as Foreign Minister in the present Egyptian régime, who is now in London, is here for the purpose of negotiating with His Majesty's Government; and whether any statement on the negotiations will be made in Parliament?

No, Sir. The Egyptian Minister for Foreign Affairs is engaged on a tour of inspection of various Egyptian Diplomatic Missions in Europe, which has naturally included a visit to this country. While Dr. Hafez Afifi will no doubt take the opportunity of his visit here to discuss current business, I believe His Excellency has no intention of proposing negotiations with His Majesty's Government.