HC Deb 31 October 1945 vol 415 cc396-7
6. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement in regard to the progress being made in Hungary, Roumania and Bulgaria towards the achievement of democratic government and to recognition by His Majesty's Government.

5. Mr. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will give any information regarding the state of affairs in Hungary.

12. Mr. Langford-Holt

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement on the proposed elections in Hungary.

Mr. Bevin

I understand that the Hungarian political parties have now decided that general elections should be held on 4th November as originally planned on the basis of separate party lists. His Majesty's Government welcome this decision and as soon as it is clear that the elections will be fairly conducted they will be able to consider the recognition of the Hungarian Government. In Rumania a constitutional deadlock continues and no progress has been made towards the formation of a representative government such as to justify recognition by His Majesty's Government. In Bulgaria elections are due to be held on 18th November. The opposition parties have unanimously decided not to participate in these elections on the grounds that in present conditions free and fair elections are impossible. His Majesty's Government are considering their attitude towards such elections.

Sir T. Moore

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether he is satisfied with the general spirit of co-operation by our Allies in this democratic re-education of these countries?

Mr. Bevin

I would not say that I was satisfied, but I have also to bear in mind that all these countries have emerged from a war, and we cannot get things perfect in a moment. It has taken 300 years in order that the hon. and gallant Gentleman may sit in this House.