HC Deb 01 December 1949 vol 470 cc1306-7
29. Mr. Gammans

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations if any consultations have taken place with the Governments of India and Pakistan regarding the danger to their security constituted by the threatened invasion of Tibet by Chinese Communist forces.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

The hon. Member may rest assured that His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom are in close and continuous touch with the Governments of India and Pakistan, and with the other Governments of the Commonwealth, on all matters affecting their interests which arise from the present situation in China.

Mr. Gammans

Can I assume that our interests with regard to the integrity of Tibet remain as before?

Mr. Noel-Baker

The hon. Member may make any assumptions he likes, but I might perhaps add that most visitors to Tibet, including our Everest expeditions, find the climate a considerable trial.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

In view of the danger of Communist infiltration, would the Minister consider sending the hon. Gentleman the Member for Orpington (Sir W. Smithers) there on a special mission?