HC Deb 05 July 1954 vol 529 cc1768-9
11. Sir R. Acland

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what Government he now recognises in Guatemala.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

The constitutional position in Guatemala is not yet clear. No new request for recognition has been made. In the meantime, Her Majesty's representative has been instructed to deal with the authorities in Guatemala City on a de facto basis.

Sir R. Acland

In view of the report in "The Times" already quoted by my right hon. and learned Friend, has the Minister any doubt that we are here dealing with a situation in which an elected Government has been overthrown by a revolutionary force vociferously encouraged and militarily sustained from outside? Is that not exactly what we complain about regarding the Communists all over China and Asia, and had we not better be very wary about recognising the outcome of this lamentable state of affairs?

Mr. Lloyd

I certainly agree with the hon. Baronet that we should try to ascertain more about the facts before we proceed to deal with this new Government except on a de facto basis. On the other hand, it is quite clear that what took place was a revolt by Guatemalan exiles against the Government.