HC Deb 23 October 1940 vol 365 cc1024-5
5. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will invite the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics to become officially associated with our own Government in arranging for the evacuation of British children, invalids and old people to places of safety overseas; whether it is possible to secure Union of Soviet Socialist Republics ships, as well as our own, for this purpose; and whether he will consider securing the co-operation of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, and other neutral Governments, for urgent humanitarian purposes?

Mr. Butler

While His Majesty's Government naturally welcome all offers of assistance on humanitarian grounds from neutral Governments and persons, they have never seen their way to invite the co-operation of any foreign Government in this matter. As the hon. Member will be aware, it has been found necessary to suspend overseas evacuation for the present.

Mr. Sorensen

Would not the Under-Secretary agree that one should secure co-operation between ourselves and certain neutral Governments on humanitarian grounds? Would that not be likely to have political and other benefits where a direct approach might fail?

Mr. Butler

I said that we would welcome all offers of assistance on humanitarian grounds.

Mr. Shinwell

Did we not seek the assistance of the American Government, and is that not a foreign Government?

Mr. Butler

I do not think we technically sought their assistance, although we are very grateful for anything that the American Government have been prepared to do.

Mr. Sorensen

Would not the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to try and overcome the technical difficulties?

Mr. Butler

I think that, in view of the last sentences of my reply, and because overseas evacuation has been suspended for the present, no further action can be taken. The value of the hon. Gentleman's observations, however, is fully realised by the Government.