§ 62. Colonel J. R. H. Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what machinery he proposes to set up for negotiations with the Administrator appointed by the U.S.A. to co-ordinate the needs and the form it should take, of the 16 nations; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. McNeilThe hon. and gallant Member is aware that, in company with the representatives of the other participating countries of Western Europe, my right hon. Friend signed the Convention for the establishment of the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation in Paris on 16th April. A White Paper containing the text of the Convention, and 1440 of the Resolutions transmitted to the Council of the Organisation by the Committee of European Economic Co-operation, which the Committee also approved on 16th April will be placed before the House as soon as possible.
As far as relations with the United States Administrator are concerned, one of the resolutions approved by the Committee reads as follows:
The Organisation for European Economic Co-operation should make all such arrangements as may be appropriate to maintain close relationships with the United States Special Representative in Europe appointed in accordance with the United States Economic Cooperation Act of 1948, and to assist him in the performance of his duties.In accordance with the terms of the United States Foreign Assistance Act, bilateral agreements will also be concluded between the United States Government and each participating country. It is expected that the negotiation of these agreements will be conducted through the normal channels.
§ Colonel HutchisonIn view of these enormously important conferences, and the results that will flow from them to this country, has the right hon. Gentleman any machinery in mind whereby this House can consider these questions from time to time?
Mr. McNeilI should think that, perhaps, that question might be more appropriately addressed to my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House.
§ Mr. MaclayCan the Minister state whether the precise terms of the United States Foreign Assistance Act are available in this country, or whether he can make them available?