§ 8. Mr. Teelingasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether in the coming consultations concerning a Pacific Pact on lines similar to the Atlantic Pact, consideration will be taken of the peculiar position of Japan; and whether the opportunity will be taken to discuss the possibility of those Powers present making a separate peace with Japan and after that including her in such a pact.
§ Mr. MayhewThe hon. Member's Question is based on a false assumption. No consultations concerning a Pacific Pact have been arranged.
§ Mr. TeelingBut is it not in contemplation? Did not the hon. Gentleman see a statement by the Australian Prime 347 Minister that it is high time a Pacific Pact was arranged? Further, does he not realise that it is now four years since the Armistice with Japan, and that there is no reason why we should not come to some agreement?
§ Mr. MayhewI believe there was some misunderstanding about the statement of the Australian Prime Minister. There have been no consultations for a Pacific Pact.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesIs the Minister aware that Japan was a signatory of the original Anti-Comintern Pact, and will he tell us what is the objection to Japan joining a pact which is presumably for the same purpose?