§ 51. Mr. Callaghanasked the Prime Minister if he will arrange for the Minister of Defence to visit Korea at the same time 764 as the President-Elect of the United States in order that Britain may be represented at the talks that will take place.
§ 53. Major Legge-Bourkeasked the Prime Minister if he has accepted the invitation of the President-Elect of the United States for a member of Her Majesty's Government to accompany him in Korea.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. With the permission of the House, I will answer at the same time Question No. 53; no such invitation has been received.
According to my information, General Eisenhower intends to visit Korea to examine the scene for himself. We are sure that Her Majesty's Government and other members of the Commonwealth will be consulted on any important changes of policy.
§ Mr. CallaghanIs not the purpose of the visit, in General Eisenhower's own words, to examine every course that is likely to bring the war to an end? If, as we all hope, he is likely to be successful, would it not be an advantage if the Minister of Defence were there at the same time?
§ The Prime MinisterI think that that point was fully covered by my answer.
§ Major Legge-BourkeAre we to understand from my right hon. Friend's original answer that a statement attributed to General Eisenhower after his election that he would welcome a Member of Her Majesty's Government accompanying him to Korea was in fact, never made? If so, can my right hon. Friend say how it came about that it was published?
§ The Prime MinisterI really cannot answer questions about statements made by foreign statesmen. I cannot do so, at any rate not without specific notice. It may well be that General Eisenhower may have used the expression suggested, but so far as Her Majesty's Government are concerned we have not received anything in the nature of an official invitation, and I have nothing to add to what I have said.
§ Mr. CallaghanDo we need an invitation to go to Korea? Does the Prime Minister not think that, if anything comes out of this mission at all, at least our own Minister of Defence should be there?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not myself consider that that would be the most advantageous course. If any serious changes are proposed, I think they should be discussed in the usual manner through the Foreign Office and also, if necessary, between heads of Governments and States.
§ Mr. CallaghanHas the Prime Minister made that point clear in Washington?
§ The Prime MinisterIf I am addressed I should certainly respond in a manner which would be readily comprehended.