HC Deb 23 February 1948 vol 447 c1588
20. Mr. Thomas Reid

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the nature of the system of rule which has been set up recently in the Russian zone of Korea.

Mr. McNeil

According to an announcement recently made in the capital of the Soviet zone of Korea a new Constitution has been drafted which is to be submitted to the North Korean People's Assembly about the middle of March. The information at our disposal would suggest that Press reports to the effect that changes in the status of North Korea have already taken place are premature.

Mr. T. Reid

Can my right hon. Friend say whether this new development is contrary to international treaties?

Mr. McNeil

I should prefer to see official details of the Constitution before giving any reply.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Can the Minister say whether, under this Constitution, democratic principles will be preserved, and whether human rights, which are now being considered by the United Nations Organisation, will be protected?

Mr. McNeil

As I have indicated, I do not know what changes in the Constitutional structure are contemplated, but I fear the changes in the political structure will mean, I regret to say, one more variation in the familiar theme of the Fatherland Front.

Mr. Teeing

At the present moment is there any official representative or any British newspaperman in North Korea to find out what is going on?

Mr. McNeil

Perhaps I could have notice of that question.