HC Deb 24 June 1942 vol 380 cc1947-8
3. Mr. Vernon Bartlett

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in view of the ratification of the Anglo-Soviet Treaty by the Soviet Government, when it is proposed that the British ratification should take place?

Mr. Eden

It is the practice to lay treaties requiring ratification for 21 Parliamentary days in all cases where the continuance of the Parliamentary Session makes this course practicable. when it does not, or when considerations of urgency require earlier ratification, the treaty is ratified and Parliament notified as soon as may be afterwards. In present circumstances, the 21 Parliamentary days are spread over seven weeks. The Supreme Soviet of the U.S.S.R. has already ratified the Treaty. Therefore, since the statement which I made in the House on nth June about the Treaty has, I think, commanded general assent, I propose now to submit the instrument of ratification to His Majesty for signature.

Mr. Bartlett

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his reply will give very great satisfaction, because it is the unanimous desire of the people of this country that the Treaty should come into operation as soon as possible?

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