§ 66. Brigadier Fitzroy Macleanasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that provisions of the Moscow decision of December, 1945, in regard to Korea are not being carried out; and what action he has taken in the matter.
The Minister of State (Mr. McNeil)Yes, Sir. At the Moscow Conference it was agreed that a United States-Soviet Joint Commission should be set up to prepare the way for the establishment of a Korean provisional democratic Government, and to make proposals for implementing the decision to establish a four-Power trusteeship for a period of up to five years. This commission sat between March and May, but broke up owing to a difference of opinion as to which Korean parties and organisations should be consulted. On 30th August and again on 1st October Mr. Acheson, the United States Acting Secretary of State, emphasised the willingness of the United States Government to resume the negotiations at any time the Soviet Government wished. His Majesty's Government welcome Mr. Acheson's statement, and it is their hope that the deliberations of the Joint Commission may be resumed as early as possible.
§ 67. Brigadier Macleanasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware of the difficulties at present being experienced by the British liaison officer in Korea owing to lack of funds, staff and proper means of communication; and what steps he is taking to remedy matters.
Mr. McNeilI am aware of the difficulties with which the British liaison officer in Korea is now confronted. As regards staff, an assistant has been selected, and it is hoped he will proceed soon to Korea. Communications will be speedily improved. The delay here has been due to indifferent security arrangements which are about to be remedied. Normal channels for the transmission of funds still do not exist, but the British liaison officer is receiving adequate local currency through the good offices of the United States authorities.