HC Deb 17 February 1943 vol 386 cc1706-7
8. Mr. Simmonds

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Government have entered into discussions with any foreign Power with regard to the international control or operation of air transport after the war?

Mr. Eden

No, Sir, though as indicated by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister, on 3rd February, postwar civil aviation is one of the many subjects which will call for consideration with other Governments with a view to reaching an agreement acceptable to all.

Mr. Simmonds

Would my right hon. Friend give an assurance to the House that before His Majesty's Government enter into any binding obligations with any foreign Power on this matter they will seek the opinion of the House upon the measures proposed to be taken?

Mr. Eden

I do not think I could give quite that undertaking. The hon. Member will realise that a decision in this respect will be the same as any other international arrangement arrived at, that is, the Government would have to take the responsibility, and it would be open to Parliament to disagree if it so wished.

Mr. Gallacher

In view of the 20-years Treaty with the Soviet Union, will not this question of air transport be a subject to be discussed under that Treaty?

Mr. Eden

Certainly, the Soviet Government will be one of those with which discussions will have to take place.