HC Deb 15 July 1946 vol 425 cc876-7
95. Mr. John McKay

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what consultations he has had with the U.S.A. as to how, by their united efforts, they could influence the speedy implementation of free elections, in Poland so that the agreement signed at Yalta by the then Prime Minister, Mr. Roosevelt and M. Stalin, will be honoured.

Mr. McNeil

I can assure my hon. Friend that there has been a full and constant exchange of information between His Majesty's Government and the United States Government on this question.

Mr. McKay

Could the hon. Gentleman tell us what the results of those consultations are?

Mr. McNeil

There have been some results, and they arise in the answer I propose to give later.

Vice-Admiral Taylor

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the Polish Provisional Government have done everything possible to prevent these free elections taking place; and how does he propose to make them do so? Will he not consider refusing to continue to recognise Fascism?

Mr. Sydney Silverman

Is it not perfectly clear from recent events that the state of public order in Poland does not warrant the holding of any elections? Can I have an answer?

Mr. McNeil

I think it would be only reasonable if I asked for a little time to consider the answer.

Professor Savory

There have been deliberate disturbances.

Mr. Silverman

By the hon. Member's friends.

Professor Savory

No, by those of the hon. Member opposite.