§ 45. Mr. Lewisasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the conciliatory nature of the first statement on foreign policy by the new Prime Minister of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, he will now take an early opportunity of initiating his declared policy of three-Power talks to discuss international problems, by making an approach to President Eisenhower and Prime Minister Malenkov for a joint meeting.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Winston Churchill)If I am not able to give an answer to this Question today I hope that the House will not assume that these issues are not regarded as of the highest importance at the present time.
§ Mr. LewisI am very much obliged to the Prime Minister for that reply, and I appreciate the reason for it. May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he has seen the excellent article in today's "Daily Mirror"? If not, will he read it, especially with regard to point three and point four? Further, is he aware that most, if not all, people in this country believe that at some time the leaders of the States have got to get together and that it is better to do it before the start of a third world war rather than afterwards?
§ The Prime MinisterI am quite willing to admit that the "Daily Mirror" seems to be coming along rather better from time to time. I do not think that this particular article, which I did notice, exactly lives up to that high standard of improvement.
§ Mr. GowerWill the Prime Minister, through the proper diplomatic channels, make it clear to the Soviet Government 1503 that the vast majority of people in this country wish them well and hope that they will sincerely take part in an advance towards world peace?
§ The Prime MinisterYes. I certainly should not feel it necessary to make any controversial rejoinder to that supplementary question.