§ 32. Mrs. Castleasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what representations have been received from the United States Government proposing a blockade of the China coast.
§ 38. Mr. Edelmanasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what proposals he has received from the United States Government for a blockade of China.
§ Mrs. CastleCould the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that if, when the General Assembly of the United Nations meets again, proposals are put forward by the United States Government for the United Nations approval for the blockade of China, the British delegation will wholeheartedly oppose such a suggestion?
§ Mr. EdenThe hon. Lady may recall that I said on 5th February that we think it would be a mistake to have a policy of blockade. We are already on record in that matter, and we have not changed our view.
§ Mr. StracheyWhat representations is the Foreign Secretary making to the United States Government that the policy into which that Government appear to be drifting in the Far East may do irreparable damage to our joint interests there?
§ Mr. EdenI think there is no doubt that the United States Government are aware of our views in this matter. As I 875 say, they have been publicly stated quite apart from anything that may have been stated privately.
§ Mr. EdelmanWill the right hon. Gentleman reinforce mutual understanding in this matter by assuring the United States that were they to propose a blockade, such a blockade would receive the united opposition of all parties in this country?
§ Mr. EdenI do not know how far that comment would be helpful at this stage. I feel confident myself that the United States Government understand our opinion in this matter and I feel confident that they, like we, wish to work in harmony with their allies.