§ 7. Mr. William Teelingasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether during his coming visit to the United States of America he will discuss with the other signatories of the Atlantic Pact the future position of Spain; and whether, in view of her great strategic value in any future defence of Western Europe, he is now prepared to propose the annulment of the United Nations' resolution recommending the severing of diplomatic relations with Spain.
§ Mr. MayhewNo, Sir. My right hon. Friend has no present intention of holding any such discussion; nor is he prepared to propose the annulment of the United Nations' resolution of December, 1946.
§ Mr. TeelingIf this question is raised, will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that Spain is vitally necessary for the defence of Western Europe and, furthermore, that there is such a thing—
§ Mrs. Leah ManningWhat about 1938?
§ Mr. Teeling—as Christianity and forgiveness, and is it not about time we forgave anything we were angry about?
§ Mr. Platts-MillsLink up with the country's enemies and with the Fascists. That is what you want.
§ Mr. MayhewThere are many other factors besides these strategic considerations we shall have to bear in mind.
Vice-Admiral TaylorIs not this severance of diplomatic relations a direct intervention in the internal affairs of Spain? There is no justification for it at all, and is it not time it was brought to an end?
§ Mr. MayhewWe have not severed diplomatic relations with Spain. The Ambassador has been withdrawn. And we have certainly not violated any Article of the Charter relating to infringement of internal affairs by our action.
§ Mr. BramallWill my hon. Friend bear in mind the clause in the Atlantic Pact saying that this is for the defence of democratic institutions?
Major LloydIs the Minister aware of how much out of touch he is in his stubborn reply with public opinion throughout the world?