§ 18. Mr. A. Hendersonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement on the representations he has made regarding the recognition by the Greek and other Governments of King Farouk of Egypt as the King of the Sudan.
§ Mr. NuttingHer Majesty's Government's views on the question of King Farouk's title are well known to the 413 House. Recognition of a change in the title involves in the eyes of many Sudanese recognition of a change in the status of the Sudan and we are pledged not to recognise such a change without consultation with the Sudanese. This point of view has been put strongly to all the Governments concerned. I therefore regret the action taken by the Governments which have recognised the new title without waiting to hear what the Sudanese had to say. I am glad at least that some of the Governments have made it plain that recognition is not intended to have any political significance.
§ Mr. HendersonIs it correct that there was an understanding between the countries associated with N.A.T.O., including Greece, that they should take no action which would embarass the present negotiations between the United Kingdom Government and the Egyptian Government?
§ Mr. NuttingSuch an understanding most certainly did exist.
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanDid I understand my hon. Friend to say that this was a question of consultation only with the Sudanese people? Should not it be "agreement" rather than "consultation?"
§ Mr. NuttingBy "consultation" we most certainly implied "agreement."
§ Sir T. MooreAnd willing agreement.
§ Mr. DribergCan the hon. Gentleman say whether the Foreign Secretary took the opportunity of discussing this matter recently with Mr. Acheson and, if so, could he say whether the State Department now appreciate the Sudanese point of view?
§ Mr. NuttingThis subject was discussed between my right hon. Friend and the United States Secretary of State. The United States Government have consistently supported Her Majesty's Government in this matter.