HC Deb 12 March 1951 vol 485 cc1061-2
47. Mr. Blackburn

asked the Lord President of the Council whether he will provide time for the Motion in the name of the hon. Member for Northfield as to consultation with Commonwealth Governments on major issues of defence policy.

[That this House affirms that it should be the practice of His Majesty's Government before deciding major issues of defence policy such as the appointment of an American Admiral as Supreme Commander, Atlantic, to consult the Governments of the British Commonwealth.]

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Ede)

I have been asked to reply. I am afraid that I cannot find time for the discussion of this Motion at present.

Mr. Blackburn

While appreciating the reasons for that reply, may I ask at any rate for this assurance, that issues of defence policy such as the appointment of Supreme Commanders in the Mediterranean and the Atlantic are subjects upon which His Majesty's Government take prior steps to consult with the Governments of the British Commonwealth who are so closely affected?

Mr. Ede

That appears to be anticipating the discussion on the Motion.