HC Deb 19 February 1947 vol 433 cc1152-3
24. Mr. Francis Noel-Baker

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to what extent His Majesty's Government have been in touch, either through His Majesty's Embassy in Pans or other diplomatic channels, with the Spanish Republican Government since that Government was re-formed.

Mr. Bevin

Yes, Sir. During the last few days there have been unofficial contacts between His Majesty's Embassy in Paris and the new Spanish Republican administration.

Mr. Noel-Baker

While welcoming that reply, I would ask my right hon. Friend whether he does not agree that the Spanish Republican Government form one of the principal factors which must be taken into account in attempting to find a democratic solution in Spain; also, is he aware that the composition of the new Government is such that they would be likely to welcome the help and advice of my right hon. Friend?

Mr. Bevin

The Government were so recently formed that I must wait and see whether they have stability.

Major Guy Lloyd

Would the right hon. Gentleman tell the House who, in fact, are the Spanish Republican Government?

Mr. Bevin

I have not the whole of the names here. It the hon. and gallant Gentleman will put down a Question, I will see that he gets an answer.

Major Legge-Bourke

Who initiated these unofficial talks—the Spanish Republican Government or this Government?

Mr. Bevin

I think it was a perfectly mutual approach.

Back to