§ 40. Mr. Fenner Brockwayasked the Minister of Defence if he will make a statement regarding the discussions with the Defence Minister of the Government of South African Union on the defence of the African continent.
§ Mr. H. MacmillanI have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member or Fife, West (Mr. Hamilton) on Wednesday, 27th October.
§ Mr. BrockwayIt is because I have read that reply and find that at gives so little information that I have tabled this Question. Is it not the case that, when he came to this country, Mr. Erasmus indicated that he proposed to discuss two proposals with the right hon. Gentleman; the first, for a union of Europeans in Africa against what he described as the African revolution; and the second, for incorporating Africa in the N.A.T.O. Pact? Surely the right hon. Gentleman has some information to give the House upon those very big issues?
§ Mr. MacmillanNo, Sir. These discussions were of a general character and no decisions have been reached upon them.
§ Mr. HamiltonWill the Minister give an assurance that any pact entered into with the South African Government will not result in the support of the United Kingdom Government being given to any kind of organisation supporting the racial policy being carried out by the South African Government?
§ Mr. MacmillanIf the hon. Gentleman will look at my replies, he will see that they are quite clear. They stated that we undertook to discuss and to consider certain questions.
Mr. DugdaleWill the right hon. Gentleman say what connection, if any, there is between these discussions and the discussions now proceeding between officers of the Admiralty and officials of the South African Government about the future of the naval base at Simonstown?
§ Mr. MacmillanThat is quite another question, and no decision has been taken on it.
§ Mr. BrockwayIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I wish to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.