HC Deb 04 July 1951 vol 489 cc2308-10
36. Mr. A. Edward Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made towards the completion of a peace treaty with Japan; and when completion and publication may be expected.

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Ernest Davies)

As a result of Mr. Dulles' recent visit, full agreement was reached on the main provisions of a draft treaty subject to the approval of His Majesty's and the United States Governments. The draft is now being communicated to other Governments, and I anticipate that the text will be published shortly by agreement, when these Governments have had an opportunity to consider it.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Is my hon. Friend aware of the discussions that have taken place upon this proposed draft in the United States, and that a time-table has been agreed upon, and that if that timetable is operated it will mean that the Treaty will be endorsed before this House has an opportunity of considering it? Will he take the initiative in preventing that time-table from operating until the House has had an opportunity of considering it?

Mr. Davies

The question of a debate relating to the Japanese Peace Treaty is, of course, a matter for the Leader of the House, but an undertaking has already been given that an opportunity will he provided for such a debate.

Mr. Fort

Before the hon. Gentleman puts the draft Treaty before the House, will he undertake to consult the textiles industries of this country, which are vitally concerned with any treaty with Japan?

Mr. Davies

The Treaty is already in draft, and it is shortly to be published, and I hope that it will be seen that the various persons interested have been adequately consulted.

Mr. R. A. Butler

In view of the shortness of the time before the Recess, may I put it to the Government, through the hon. Gentleman, that it would be convenient if time could be found for the debate before the House rises, if this publication is to be made?

Mr. Anthony Greenwood

Can we take it from my hon. Friend's reply to the hon. Member for Clitheroe (Mr. Fort) that the Government are fully satisfied that the interests of Lancashire are protected in the Treaty?

Mr. Davies

I would suggest that my hon. Friend awaits the publication of the Treaty, and then he will see.

Mr. S. Silverman

Can my hon. Friend assure the House that the draft Treaty does in fact contain provisions designed to protect the cotton trade of this country, and the pottery trade and other trades, from unfair methods of competition?

Mr. Davies

I would suggest that hon. Members await the publication of the text, because we cannot enter into discussions on the text until it is published, and it can be published only by agreement with the United States Government, because it is a joint draft.

Mr. Edward Davies

Does that mean that the House will have an opportunity of considering the matter before we are finally committed? That is the point.

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Yes.