HC Deb 15 December 1943 vol 395 c1520
7. Mr. Ivor Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Treaty of Mutual Aid between the Soviet Union and Czechoslovakia was discussed in his recent conversations at Moscow; and whether he has any statement to make on the relations of this treaty to the general pattern of European security after the war?

Mr. Eden

Yes, Sir. I was glad to be able to avail myself of the opportunity of discussing this matter with M. Molotov and Mr. Cordell Hull in Moscow. His Majesty's Government welcome this agreement against German aggression between two of their Allies, particularly as it provides for the adherence of neighbouring countries which have also been the object of German aggression. It is the hope of His Majesty's Government that the agreement may thus become an important instrument in giving effect to the principles enunciated in the Four Power Declaration on general security issued at Moscow.

Mr. Thomas

While also welcoming the Treaty, may I ask whether there is not some danger in isolated agreements without any relation to the general pattern of European security?

Mr. Eden

There might well be such a danger, but I do not think it can possibly be applied to this Treaty in the form in which it now is.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it not desirable that Treaties of this kind should be encouraged?