HC Deb 14 December 1953 vol 522 cc15-6
20. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will give an assurance that the representation of Her Majesty's Government at the proposed Korean political conference will be at Ministerial level

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

I have nothing to add to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary to the right hon. Member for Colne Valley (Mr. Glenvil Hall) on 30th November.

Mr. Henderson

As the House is going into Recess on Friday, are we not entitled to an indication of the intentions of the Government on this matter? Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman not agree that this is a most important conference and if it is held—as it may well be—during next month, while the House is in Recess, should we not be told whether the Government regard it as sufficiently important to justify Ministerial representation?

Mr. Lloyd

I repeat what my right hon. Friend said, that it would be premature to make a statement upon this matter while the place and the date of the conference have not even been settled.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Is it not a fact that Mr. Dulles announced, as long ago as last December, that he would be the chairman of the United States delegation to the Korean political conference? Is it not manifestly desirable that Her Majesty's Government should make it known that they will have a Minister at this conference, whenever it is held?

Mr. Lloyd

All I have to say is that an announcement will be made at the appropriate time.

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