Anglo-Thai Non-Aggression Pact
The Anglo-Thai Non-Aggression Pact was concluded in
Ratifications were exchanged in Bangkok on 31 August 1940, and the pact became effective on the same day. It was designated to remain in force for five years, unless it was extended. The pact was registered in League of Nations Treaty Series on 6 June 1941.[1]
In spite of the pact, Thailand declared war on the United Kingdom on 25 January 1942.
Background
Following the Japanese invasion of China in 1937, British policy in East Asia was in a state of confusion. The British government opposed Japanese expansionist policies, but at this point was not in a position to take up arms against the Japanese actions, especially following the
This situation continued following the outbreak of the
Terms
Article 1 stipulated the British and Thai governments would not resort to war against each other.
Article 2 provided for the termination of the pact if the British or the Thai governments committed an act of aggression against a third party.
Article 3 annulled any previous obligation by the British or the Thai governments to assist a third party in a war against another.
Article 4 stipulated that nothing in the pact annulled legal obligations that arose from the Covenant of the League of Nations.
Article 5 had the two governments undertake not to disrupt each other's control over its territories.
Article 6 provided for the ratification of the pact.
See also
References
- ^ League of Nations Treaty Series, vol. 203, pp. 422-432.
- ^ Neville Chamberlain's speech in Parliament announcing the formula, July 24, 1939
- ^ "JAPAN-GREAT BRITAIN: Formula" Time, July 31, 1939
- ^ Churchill's announcement in Parliament about agreement to close the Burma Road
External links
- Text of the non-aggression pact
- Announcement in the British Parliament about the conclusion of the treaty