HC Deb 11 February 1953 vol 511 cc394-5
15. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in the interests of democracy, he will take an early opportunity of indicating the conditions under which Her Majesty's Government would be willing to consider the incorporation of Spain in the defence of Western Europe.

Mr. Nutting

Her Majesty's Government have no steps in mind for incorporating Spain in the defence of Western Europe. Any proposal for Spanish membership of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation would be a matter requiring consultation with our partners in that organisation.

Mr. Fletcher

Has not the Minister any positive proposals for encouraging democratic forces who are anxious to see a different regime in Spain?

Mr. Nutting

It is not for Her Majesty's Government, and I hope it never will be a matter for Her Majesty's Government, to interfere in the internal affairs of other States.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Can the Minister give an assurance to the House that before there is any change in our policy as regards bringing Spain into Western defence he will fully consult the House before any action is taken?

Mr. Nutting

I have said that any proposal for bringing Spain into Western defence or into the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation will be a matter for consultation with our partners in that organisation.