HC Deb 02 April 1953 vol 513 cc1336-7
1. Mr. Gordon Walker

asked 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 Walker

Is 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. Foster

No, Sir. Discussions have always taken place about the importance of military co-operation with other Commonwealth countries.

Mr. Shinwell

Can 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. Foster

No, Sir.

Mr. Shinwell

Does that mean that the hon. and learned Gentleman does not know anything about this?

Mr. Foster

No, Sir, it does not.

Mr. Shinwell

If the hon. and learned Gentleman does know something about it, will he inform the House?

Mr. Foster

I cannot state all my knowledge in answer to one Question.