Mr. .Asquith explained the action of the Powers in regard
to the Balkans. When the war broke out the Great Powers prepared to deal with the situation as it affected the system based on the Treaty of Berlin. In the conference of Ambassadors agreement had been reached on all vitally important points. Turkey had consented to accept the mediation of the six Powers, and he hoped that the Balkan Allies would also accept the offer. The dispute between Rumania and Bulgaria was also being composed by the mediation. We retained, and intended to retain, the friendship of France and Russia. If there had been any change in the grouping of Powers it had been in the direction of increased cordiality. As for the Navy and Army, the fullest information would be given. It was not for party purposes that Redis- tribution had been deferred, and he suggested that it might be possible for the two parties to come to an agreement on the subject. The Government recognized their obligation to reform the Lords, and genuinely desired to do so.
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