HC Deb 04 February 1953 vol 510 c1832
24. Mr. Philips Price

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the concern shown recently in India about the possibility of the inclusion of Pakistan in a Middle East defence organisation, he can state what is the nature of the proposals for including Pakistan in this organisation.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Her Majesty's Government are discussing with certain Governments proposals for the setting up of an organisation to make plans for the defence of the Middle East. Pakistan has not been included in these discussions. But in view of Pakistan's obvious interest in the defence of the Middle East she will in due course be informed of the nature of the proposals.

Mr. Price

Is it not a fact that the fears of the Indian Government are really without foundation?

Mr. Lloyd

I am not sure that it is for me to speculate as to what are the fears of the Indian Government.