§ 48. Mr. A. Hendersonasked the Prime Minister whether he will instruct the Minister of Defence to express to President Syngman Rhee personally the concern of Her Majesty's Government over the constitutional crisis which has arisen in South Korea.
§ The Prime MinisterHer Majesty's Government's concern at recent political developments in South Korea has already been expressed to President Rhee by Her Majesty's Chargé d'Affaires in Pusan.
§ Mr. HendersonWas it made clear to President Rhee that British forces are fighting in South Korea to protect that country from aggression and not to ensure establishment of a self-constituted dictatorship? Secondly, may I ask whether any reply has been received to the representations made on behalf of Her Majesty's Government?
§ The Prime MinisterI was not present at these interchanges and I would not be able to say what detail they took, but I am quite sure that the various points the right hon. and learned Gentleman has made would not at all have been excluded from the purview of the British representatives.
§ Mr. ShinwellHas the right hon. Gentleman any information to furnish to the House indicating that the attitude of President Rhee has changed as a result of the representations which have been made?
§ The Prime MinisterThe Foreign Secretary tells me that he is to answer a number of Questions on this matter tomorrow.
§ Mr. DonnellyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the great concern which exists in the country about this thug and blackguard in Korea? Is he further aware that the behaviour of President Syngman Rhee is making a complete travesty of the actions of the United Nations in Korea?
§ The Prime MinisterI am sure that no responsible Government in this House would like to have such expressions used without any regard to international considerations, and I am sorry that the hon. Member has taken the course he has taken.