§ 45. Mr. Turtonasked the Prime Minister whether, as a result of his conversations with the Prime Minister of Australia, he now proposes to take any steps towards integrating the foreign policy of the British Commonwealth.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)On questions of major importance to all members of the Commonwealth there is, of course, the fullest consultation, and every endeavour is made to arrive at an agreed view. On many other questions the Commonwealth countries are kept fully informed. There are naturally many day-to-day questions of foreign policy of minor importance and limited interest, on which it is neither necessary nor practicable to co-ordinate the views of all the Commonwealth countries. It would not be possible in this sense to integrate the policy of the Commonwealth over the whole field of foreign affairs, nor would it be in accordance with the nature of the Commonwealth as it has developed in the course of time to attempt to do so. I had some very helpful discussions with the Prime Minister of Australia during his visit to this country, and he was in agreement with the views which I have expressed in this reply.
§ Mr. TurtonIn view of the fact that Mr. Menzies at Adelaide on 26th June stated that Empire Defence Co-operation became pointless if there was no common Empire foreign policy, did the Prime Minister discuss with Mr. Menzies how that could be achieved, and will he now invite the other Commonwealth Prime Ministers to consult together on this very important matter?
§ The Prime MinisterWe do consult on these matters. We have had consultations at conferences and there is a constant interchange of view. I have not had dissatisfaction with these methods expressed by Commonwealth Prime Ministers themselves.