HC Deb 14 December 1949 vol 470 cc2643-4
18. Mr. H. D. Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what grounds the British delegation to the General Assembly voted against the principle of equal education for children of all races in non-self-governing territories.

Mr. Creech Jones

The vote was not cast against the principle of equal education as such. It was cast because a vote in favour would have implied an admission that the United Nations has a locus standi for interfering in our Colonial administration in a way which the United Nations Charter does not in fact support.

Mr. Hughes

Would my right hon. Friend make it clear that a British representative at the United Nations stated that it was the policy of the United Kingdom to provide equal education in all non-self-governing territories and, in view of the fact that only votes and resolutions, and not the speeches and meetings that lie behind them get attention in the Press, will he publish a full statement of all our votes on questions at recent meetings of the General Assembly?

Mr. Gallacher

It is not what is said, but what is done.

Mr. Creech Jones

I have promised a full statement to be published in the form of a White Paper. On every occasion when a vote of this kind is taken the position of His Majesty's Government is stated and it was so on this occasion.

Mr. Piratin

If it is the policy of the Government to secure equal education for children of all races, is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that that is so in all Colonial countries?

Mr. Creech Jones

Yes, Sir.