§ 15. Mr. MORGAN JONES (for Mr. ATTLEE)asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make any further statement as to the proposed air agreement with Germany, France, and Belgium?
§ The LORD PRIVY SEAL (Mr. Eden)Yes, Sir. I can now inform the House that the Belgian, German and Italian 29 Governments have all stated their point of view on the invitation issued to them by ourselves and the French Government after the London meeting to consider with them whether an aerial convention for Western Europe could not be promptly negotiated. The Belgian Government have informed us in an official note of 11th February that they recognise Belgium's interest in participating in this negotiation. An Italian communiqué published on 9th February states that Italy approves of the proposal in principle subject to consideration of the question of the special mutual responsibilities of Italy and this country to one another. The German Government have informed us in the official note published on 14th February that they welcome the proposal and are ready to consider in free agreement with the other Governments concerned the ways and the means of the conclusion of the proposed agreement.
§ Mr. JONESWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, may I ask whether, when the communications have passed between the Governments in this matter and some agreement has been arrived at tentatively, he will present papers to the House so that hon. Members can study them before any discussion arises?