§ 48. Mr. Ronald Chamberlainasked the Prime Minister if His Majesty's Government will propose a meeting of the Big Four to consider the future of Germany in the light of recent international developments.
§ The Prime MinisterIt is hoped that the Council of Foreign Ministers will discuss Germany before the end of November. It is possible that their discussions may continue in the New Year. There is no intention of arranging any other meeting about Germany at present.
§ Mr. ChamberlainWhile I appreciate what the Prime Minister has said, would he not agree that the recent replies by Marshal Stalin to certain questions put by the United Press of America, with regard to Germany, are in fact very much in line with the policy of this country and America; and does he not think on those grounds that this is a most opportune moment to do what I am suggesting?
§ The Prime MinisterI am not quite sure what the hon. Member is suggesting. I think it is best that this should be discussed at the forthcoming meeting of the Foreign Secretaries.
§ Mr. Anthony GreenwoodWill the Prime Minister discourage the use of the term "Big Four," either by hon. Members or otherwise, in view of its exclusion of both China and the British Dominions?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir; I do not think it is a very happy phrase.