HC Deb 28 July 1952 vol 504 cc1071-2
10. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, following the judgment of the International Court at The Hague, into what further discussions he now proposes to enter with the Persian Government with a view to arriving at a settlement.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Her Majesty's Government were prepared even before the judgment of the International Court to negotiate a settlement which would take into account all the rights and interests of the parties concerned. That is still their position.

Mr. Henderson

Has the right hon. and learned Gentleman's attention been drawn to the statement published in the "Manchester Guardian" this morning by the new Persian Foreign Minister to the effect that he has every confidence that, provided there is good will, a settlement could be arrived at, and would the right hon. and learned Gentleman at least reciprocate those sentiments?

Mr. Lloyd

I am aware of the information to which the right hon. and learned Gentleman refers, and I think that the contingency which he envisages is covered by my answer.

Mr. E. Fletcher

Since the International Court has now decided that this dispute is not a matter upon which they can adjudicate, is it not the duty of the Government to take the initiative in opening negotiations with the Persian Government to try to secure some method of resolving this unfortunate dispute?

Mr. Lloyd

It depends whether the dispute to which the hon. Gentleman refers relates to the wrong which has been done by the Persian Government to the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company. On that matter the initiative has been taken to seek to settle it.

14. Mr. Langford-Holt

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a further statement on the protection of British nationals and interests following the decision of the International Court of Justice and recent developments in Persia.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

I have nothing to add to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on 23rd July.

Mr. Langford-Holt

While we are all happy that agreement satisfactory to both sides may soon be reached on this matter, may I ask whether, to prevent any unfortunate action being taken in any part of the world my right hon. and learned Friend would assure the House that the Government will take whatever action is possible to protect the interests and property of British citizens?

Mr. Lloyd

I think that that point was dealt with very fully by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in his statement.