HC Deb 19 June 1939 vol 348 cc1790-1
18. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether, with a view to preparing the ground for an eventual world conference, His Majesty's Government would be willing to enter into consultations with the United States, French, Russian, and other Governments desiring a peaceful solution of outstanding international questions, with a view to securing an agreed policy with regard to Colonies, raw materials, world markets, disarmament, and other international questions?

Mr. Butler

His Majesty's Government are already in contact with other Governments on matters concerning the peaceful solution of outstanding questions. Moreover, as the Prime Minister has stated on previous occasions, His Majesty's Government are ready to take any opportunity to promote the necessary work of preparation for a general settlement, which would demand the restoration of a general feeling of international confidence?

37. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of an increasing public movement in Great Britain and the United States of America in sympathy with the principle of a federation of nations and a world parliament; and whether he will take the initiative in inquiring of President Roosevelt and the heads of other Powers whether they will consider supporting and sharing responsibility for the calling of such a convention for the above purpose?

Mr. Butler

His Majesty's Government are fully aware of the desire among many nations for as wide a measure of international co-operation as possible, and will always, as the Prime Minister has stated on numerous occasions, be ready to consider any useful suggestions to achieve that end. His Majesty's Government's attitude is well known to all, and the present circumstances do not seem propitious for any initiative such as that mentioned by the hon. Member.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that one of His Majesty's own Ambassadors has been proposing something very much along these lines, and, in view of the considerable public opinion which is being organised in America, would not initiative on these lines be valuable at this juncture?

Mr. Butler

There are certain difficulties at this moment.

Mr. Sorensen

Are we always to be obstructed by difficulties, or should we not try to overcome them?

Mr. Butler

We do overcome them.