HC Deb 25 July 1950 vol 478 cc242-3
47. Mr. Gammans

asked the Prime Minister if he will approach the President of the United States of America with a view to securing a closer relationship between Spain and the countries of the Atlantic Pact in the light of the deteriorating international situation and the obvious desirability of the collaboration of all countries who are anxious to resist Communism.

The Prime Minister

His Majesty's Government maintain close and continuous contact with the United States Government on all matters affecting the Atlantic Pact and Western Defence. In the view of His Majesty's Government, the closer association of Spain with the Atlantic Pact countries at the present time would not strengthen the collaboration of those countries against Soviet communism.

Mr. Gammans

In view of the fact that the Foreign Secretary has stated publicly in this House that he regrets the severing of diplomatic relations with Spain, is it not lamentable that we should continue this attitude at a time when Europe is in its present danger?

The Prime Minister

That seems to be a different question.

Mr. Gammans

Does the right hon. Gentleman propose to do nothing about it? Would he sooner that Spain was overrun by Communism than that we should have full diplomatic relations with Spain?

The Prime Minister

The hon. Gentleman's question is with regard to the Atlantic Pact countries. I would remind him that the Atlantic Pact countries in the Preamble of the Treaty stated their determination to safeguard the freedom, common heritage and civilisation of their peoples, founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law.

Mr. Martin Lindsay

Is the Prime Minister aware that the negative reply that he gave about the desirability for the closest strategic relations with Spain will give the greatest pleasure to Communists all over the world?

Mr. Awbery

Will the Prime Minister make it clear that the primary object of our struggle in Korea is not to fight Communism, as suggested by the hon. Gentleman, but to uphold the principles of the United Nations Organisation?