HC Deb 26 May 1952 vol 501 cc940-1
28. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the United States of America have promised arms assistance to Iran; and if, in view of the effect this will have on Middle East defence in general and our conversations with Egypt in particular, he will state the extent to which Her Majesty's Government participated in the negotiations prior to the grant of this assistance.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

The United States Government have given military assistance to Persia since 1948. I understand that United States legislation required the Persian Government to give certain assurances at the beginning of 1952 and that as these assurances had not been given by the 8th January, military assistance was suspended on that date. After an exchange of notes between the Persian Government and the United States Government on 24th April, the assistance was resumed. Her Majesty's Government did not participate in the negotiations on this subject.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it not strange that the United States, having suspended arms assistance to Persia, should resume arms assistance to this country with whom we are in dispute, without having consulted Her Majesty's Government at all? May I ask the right hon. and learned Gentleman whether representations had been made to the United States Government upon this matter; and whether there is any prospect of our being consulted before this promise materialises?

Mr. Lloyd

The question as to whether or not the United States Government should give assistance to Persia is entirely a matter for that Government and not a matter for which Her Majesty's Government have any responsibility. However, this is a matter upon which there have been discussions between Her Majesty's Government and the United States Government.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it not an unusual and strange doctrine that the United States with whom we are in friendly relations should render arms assistance to a country with whom we are in unfriendly relations without Her Majesty's Government being consulted at all? Are we to be completely ignored by the United States in such matters?

Mr. Lloyd

The United States Government were continuing a course of conduct which they have pursued since 1948.

Mr. Shinwell

I am sorry to persist, but can we have an assurance from the right hon. and learned Gentleman on behalf of Her Majesty's Government that before the United States actually send arms to Persia, we shall have an opportunity of making representations?

Mr. Lloyd

That is another question. If the right hon. Gentleman will put it on the Order Paper, I will consider it.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

What are the nature and dimensions of this assistance?

Mr. Lloyd

I should require notice of that question.