HC Deb 01 December 1947 vol 445 cc37-8
Mr. Speaker

Before we get on to the Business of the day, I would like to make a short report to the House. I have to report that I have performed the duty imposed on me by the Resolution of the House, and that I visited Caen yesterday and was asked by the Rector to convey the university's warm thanks to the House of Commons. The Prefect of the district and the Mayor of Caen also spoke and wished me to express their admiration for the House of Commons.

I have two other matters which I promised to report, because it was made quite clear that these were acts of friendship to, and regard for, the House of Commons. The first is the demonstration and applause of the whole Assembly which was accorded to me when my presence was announced, and I should like to hand in for record in our Journals the official extract of the words spoken by M. Herriot and the Prime Minister of France. The second is that I was summoned to the Elysée on Friday night and was invested by the President of the Republic, in the presence of M. Herriot and the acting Foreign Secretary, with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour. I was assured that this, the highest honour that the President can confer, was intended as a mark of cordial friendship with the House of Commons. I cannot adequately express my appreciation of all the great hospitality that I received in Paris and of the great distinction conferred upon me.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

I am sure the House would like to thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the service you have done to this House in taking their gift to the University of Caen, to congratulate you on your safe return and to say how glad we are to see you back again, and also to express our appreciation of the high honour bestowed upon you by the French Government—an honour well deserved by you personally and which also reflects honour upon this House.

Mr. Eden

I should like to associate my right hon. and hon. Friends and myself with what the Prime Minister has said, and to add that any gesture made by our friends in France to this country is always welcome. When it is made to this House through you, Sir, it is doubly welcome.

Following is the extract referred to by Mr. SPEAKER: