HC Deb 10 May 1944 vol 399 cc1898-9
46. Mr. Edgar Granville

asked the Prime Minister who is representing Newfoundland at the present Empire Conference.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Churchill)

My Noble Friend the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs is attending the meetings of Prime Ministers and will watch the interests of Newfoundland should any matter affecting Newfoundland come up for discussion.

Mr. Granville

In view of the fact that Newfoundland will be a tremendous asset as a world air terminus for the future of civil aviation, will my right hon. Friend see that the rights and interests of the islanders, as well as the interests of the whole Empire, are safeguarded?

The Prime Minister

That seems to be a proposition to which I could certainly give support.

Mr. Tinker

As there is a difference of opinion over the pronunciation of Newfoundland, will the Prime Minister make it clear what is the correct pronounciation?

The Prime Minister

I was always brought up to call it Newfoundland, but I am not absolutely sure that New-found-land is not more correct.

47. Mr. Tree

asked the Prime Minister whether arrangements are being discussed at the meeting of Prime Ministers for the promotion of better mutual knowledge amongst the peoples of the Empire and for the setting up of adequate machinery after the war to ensure that the world shall be kept informed about the Commonwealth and the Empire as a whole.

The Prime Minister

In view of the wide range of subjects already under discussion, and the limited time available, I doubt whether it will be practicable for this question to be discussed specifically at the current meeting. I may add that this knowledge about the Empire is growing at a pretty quick rate.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the Prime Minister see that the part that Labour and Socialism are playing in the Dominions is made clear?