HC Deb 23 June 1943 vol 390 cc1132-3
4. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any statement to make with reference to the draft Agreement on post-war relief sent out by the United States Government to all members of the United Nations; and whether it is proposed that a conference shall be called to deal with the subject?

Mr. Eden

His Majesty's Government warmly welcome the step which the United States Government has taken in communicating this draft Agreement to the United Nations. The draft has been prepared by the United States Government, in consultation with His Majesty's Government and the Soviet and Chinese Governments, and His Majesty's Government are in full accord with its proposals. The Governments of all the United Nations have been asked to give their comments as rapidly as possible, and I understand that it is the intention of the United States Government to convene a Conference as soon as it appears that the proposals in the draft are generally acceptable. The draft Agreement only purports to create the framework for a United Nations organisation, and the detailed arrangements will have to be worked out by this organisation when it has been set up. But the settlement of this organisation is an essential first step. His Majesty's Government therefore very much hope that the proposals will commend themselves to their fellow members of the United Nations. In view of the magnitude and urgency of the needs which will have to be met, and the widespread sources from which supplies must be drawn, it is only through the earliest possible common action on the part of all the United Nations that an efficient organisation can be created in time to meet essential demands when the moment of liberation comes.

Mr. Mander

Do I understand that this Conference will take place in the United States?

Mr. Eden

I understand that it is the intention of the United States Government to summon a Conference, I think probably in the United States.

Dr. Haden Guest

When will this organisation be set up?

Mr. Eden

Agreement has been reached among the principal Powers concerned. I hope that the framework of the organisation will be set up soon, but work has, of course, been done in advance.

Dr. Guest

Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman cannot say anything further, for example, as to when the agreement of all the nations concerned will be obtained?

Mr. Eden

I cannot, of course, because it does not all depend upon us. It depends upon how rapidly the other nations answer. I hope that what I have said to-day will be of some encouragement to them to do so.