§ 52. Mr. Blackburnasked the Prime Minister whether the Dominions were consulted by His Majesty's Government be fore the issue of the Potsdam Declaration with regard to Japan.
§ The Prime MinisterThe reply is in the negative. In the circumstances in which the ultimatum was issued from Potsdam it was unfortunately impracticable to communicate in advance with Dominion Governments.
§ Mr. BlackburnWhile appreciating the reply given, is it not most unlikely that any circumstances will occur again in which the Dominions will fail to be consulted before an announcement of such importance is made by His Majesty's Government?
§ The Prime MinisterWe always endeavour to keep in the closest contact with Dominion Governments and consult them beforehand, but circumstances do occur during a war in which action has to be taken at once and it is quite impossible within the time limits to make the extensive inquiries which would be desired in a calmer time.
§ Flight-Lieutenant TeelingCan the Prime Minister assure us at the present moment that the Dominions are being closely consulted in the carrying out of the Potsdam Declaration?
§ The Prime MinisterWe are in full consultation.