HC Deb 22 February 1954 vol 524 cc14-5
27. Mr. Hargreaves

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what reply has been given in the consultations with the Government of Pakistan about the conclusion of an economic, cultural and defensive agreement between Pakistan and Turkey; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Eden

The hon. Member will already have seen in the Press the announcement made on this subject by the Governments of Turkey and Pakistan. Her Majesty's Government welcome this reinforcement of the ties of friendship between their ally, Turkey, and a fellow Member of the Commonwealth.

Mr. Hargreaves

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether consideration was given in these consultations to the repercussions in respect of the Government of India which would follow from this agreement, underwritten as it is by the United States?

Mr. Eden

The hon. Gentleman is asking what the Indian repercussions have been. We have had no communication from the Government of India but, as the hon. Gentleman knows, those Questions should be addressed to the Commonwealth Relations Office. I am told that the practice is that detailed discussions within the Commonwealth are not disclosed.

Mr. Warbey

Before the right hon. Gentleman gave approval to this plan, did he (have any consultations with the Government of India on this matter?

Mr. Eden

I do not know what the hon. Gentleman means about giving approval or disapproval. This is a matter of arrangement between two sovereign States, one of whom is an ally and the other a Member of the Commonwealth.