§ 51. Mr. Leslieasked the Prime Minister whether the Government will propose to have the headquarters of the United Nations located in a European country in preference to America, as the distance and expense would be a handicap against Europeans attending the meetings of the assembly and councils.
§ The Prime MinisterThis question was debated on 3rd October by the Executive Committee of the Preparatory Commission of the United Nations, and the United Kingdom Delegation were in the minority which voted in favour of Europe and against the United States of America as a site for the Organisation. The reasons given by my hon. Friend were among the considerations which influenced the attitude of His Majesty's Government. The decision of the Executive Committee is subject to confirmation by the Preparatory Commission, and, eventually, by the United Nations Organisation itself. I cannot, of course, foretell the ultimate decision.
§ Mr. LeslieMay I ask if the palatial buildings at Geneva are to be scrapped and if there is no probability of providing headquarters in Europe for the United Nations?
§ The Prime MinisterThat is rather another matter.