HC Deb 02 May 1949 vol 464 cc649-50
61. Mr. Francis Noel-Baker

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what instructions have been sent to the British Delegation to the United Nations regarding the proposals now before the United Nations to rescind their earlier resolutions which excluded Spain from all United Nations agencies and organisations.

Mr. Mayhew

So far as I am aware, no proposals to rescind the recommendation of the United Nations Assembly of 12th December, 1946, have as yet been put before the present meeting of the Assembly. I would, however, like to reaffirm that, if a move is made to rescind the United Nations' recommendation about the withdrawal of Ambassadors or the exclusion of the present Government of Spain from the specialised agencies, we do not intend to support it.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Could my hon. Friend give the House a categorical assurance that if any decision is taken to admit Spain into any technical international agencies, that will not represent the beginning of a move to include Spain in the United Nations, Western Union, the Atlantic Pact, or any of the other arrangements made between the democratic nations of Western Europe?

Mr. Mayhew

That is a hypothetical question and concerns many other Governments besides His Majesty's Government. What I can say is that we should oppose a move to include Spain, under her present régime, in the Council of Europe, the O.E.E.C., the Atlantic Pact, or the United Nations.

Vice-Admiral Taylor

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that these proposals in the first place were a direct interference with the internal affairs of Spain, whether we agree with them or not?

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir.

Mr. Benn Levy

While appreciating my hon. Friend's announcement in his first reply that our representatives will not support the inclusion of Spain in United Nations agencies and organisations, will he make it clear that this does not presage neutrality but that we will positively oppose the inclusion of Spain?

Mr. Mayhew

There is no change in our policy.

62. Mr. George Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what consultations have taken place with the Government of the United States of America recently regarding action on Spain.

Mr. Mayhew

No consultations have taken place recently, although the two Governments keep in touch on this as on other subjects through the normal diplomatic channel.