HC Deb 20 March 1946 vol 420 cc1859-60
41. Mr. Warbey

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the importance of the issues which are likely to be raised at the forthcoming meeting of the U.N.O. Security Council, arrangements will be made for the United Kingdom to be represented at that meeting by a Minister of the Crown.

Mr. Bevin

The Security Council is about to begin its regular meetings under Article 28 of the Charter. Sir Alexander Cadogan has been appointed Permanent Representative of His Majesty's Government for these regular meetings. He will act on instructions from His Majesty's Government and will, of course, keep in the closest touch with me I am satisfied with this arrangement, which corresponds to Article 28 of the Charter and to the practice of other Governments represented on the Security Council.

Mr. Warbey

In view of the grave and far-reaching responsibilities resting upon the shoulders of the British Permanent Representative on the Security Council, will the Government consider appointing a Minister resident at the scat of U.N.O. for this office?

Mr. Bevin

I think the arrangement that has been made is a very good one, and I stand by it.

Mr. Wilson Harris

Will not the right hon. Gentleman consider very seriously whether his personal presence is not most desirable at this particular meeting at which such very grave issues may arise?

Mr. Bevin

I must follow events, but one can cause trouble by dramatising too much as well as by being mundane.

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