§ 31. Mr. P. Williamsasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what consultations have taken place between the United Kingdom Government and the various Commonwealth Governments on the future of British bases in the Middle East; and with what results.
§ Mr. J. FosterIn accordance with the usual practice, other Commonwealth Governments have been continuously informed of the views and intentions of Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. WilliamsDo I understand from my hon. Friend that decisions are now come to rather than that consultations take place?
§ Mr. FosterNo, Sir.
§ Mr. GrimondCan the hon. Gentleman say whether the Commonwealth Governments were, in fact, consulted and, if so, what were their views?
§ Mr. FosterThe answer to the first part of that supplementary question is "Yes," and the answer to the second part is that it is not the practice to give details of consultations between Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries.
§ Mr. W. R. WilliamsIs it not better that this matter should be referred to the United Nations rather than that either the Commonwealth countries or ourselves should deal with it independently?
§ Mr. FosterNo. Sir.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs it the intention of Her Majesty's Government, in relation to defence in the Middle East, to include the question of a Middle East defence organisation?
§ Mr. FosterI cannot say.
§ Mr. ShinwellDoes not the hon. Gentleman know anything about it, or is he not permitted to say anything about it?
§ Mr. FosterIt is another question.