HC Deb 25 January 1954 vol 522 c1451
30. Mr. Edelman

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what further communication he has received from the United States Government concerning the Soviet reply to President Eisenhower's proposal for the setting up of an international agency for atomic energy

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

The United States Government are keeping Her Majesty's Government closely informed of their discussions with the Soviet Government on the President's proposals. I should perhaps add that at this stage these talks are of a procedural nature.

Mr. Edelman

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman say whether the subject of atomic energy will be on the Berlin agenda? If not, can he assure the House that in any discussions which take place on this subject Britain will be a direct participant as a major atomic Power and will not merely play second fiddle?

Mr. Lloyd

It is certainly the hope of the Government that this country would be a direct participant in such talks; but with regard to the other matter I adhere to the answer I gave to the hon. Member.