HC Deb 17 June 1942 vol 380 cc1496-7
5. Miss Rathbone

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why the name of Ethiopia was omitted from the list of United Nations to whom the Prime Minister's message was addressed; whether the omission was due to the Government of Ethiopia not having yet signed the Pact; if so, what steps have been taken to bring the Pact to the notice of the Government at Addis Abbaba; and how soon the appointment of a diplomatic representative of that Government in London may be expected?

Mr. Eden

Ethiopia was not included among the United Nations because the Government of Ethiopia is not a party to the Declaration of the United Nations. The Emperor is naturally aware of the terms of that Declaration. I have not been informed when the Emperor proposes to appoint a representative in London.

Miss Rathbone

In view of the difficulties of communications between Ethiopia and this country, cannot something be expedited so that as soon as possible Ethiopia may be in a position to join the other Allies in conference, in view of the effective resistance to the Axis which she gave during the combat in that country?

Mr. Eden

I can assure my hon. Friend that there is no difficulty about communications. The Emperor is fully aware of the position, and I think we must, at least, leave it to him to take his own decision.

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