§ 1. Mr. Gordon Walkerasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations when Her Majesty's Government intends to open discussions with our partners in the Commonwealth about better methods of military cooperation, including the establishment of an advisory Commonwealth Defence Council and combined staff.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (Mr. John Foster)I doubt whether the sort of measures the right hon. Gentleman seems to have in mind would be appropriate in present-day conditions. The existing arrangements for Commonwealth consultation and co-operation in defence are, however, kept under constant review in order that improvements may be made wherever practicable.
§ Mr. Gordon WalkerIs the hon. and learned Gentleman aware that these words are taken wholly from "Britain Strong and Free," and does his answer mean that the policy which was set forth before the electors of this country has been abandoned?
§ Mr. FosterNo, Sir. Discussions have always taken place about the importance of military co-operation with other Commonwealth countries.
§ Mr. ShinwellCan the hon. and learned Gentleman give us the date of the last occasion when discussions with Commonwealth countries on military co-operation took place?
§ Mr. FosterNo, Sir.
§ Mr. ShinwellDoes that mean that the hon. and learned Gentleman does not know anything about this?
§ Mr. FosterNo, Sir, it does not.
§ Mr. ShinwellIf the hon. and learned Gentleman does know something about it, will he inform the House?
§ Mr. FosterI cannot state all my knowledge in answer to one Question.