§ 46. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Prime Minister what steps he has taken since last June for the purpose of arranging an interview between himself and Mr. Malenkov of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics; and what progress he has made on these lines.
§ The Prime MinisterAs I told the hon. Member for Dartford (Mr. Dodds) on the 19th of this month, I have in no way receded from my expression of willingness to meet Mr. Malenkov at some agreed place and rendezvous if the right time and occasion are found. I have nothing to add to that reply today.
§ Mr. HughesDoes the Prime Minister not realise that the British people expect him, as he is Prime Minister for the time being, to follow the lead which has been given in this matter by the Leader of the Opposition?
§ The Prime MinisterThere are at least two parties in this country and I do not think that the British people as a whole 1381 consider me absolutely obligated in every respect to follow the lead of the right hon. Gentleman the Leader of the Opposition.
§ Mr. OsborneIn view of the fact that Mr. Malenkov is very much younger than the Prime Minister, would it not be a good idea if he came here?
§ Mr. S. SilvermanWhile it is obviously true that there is more than one party in this country, will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that all parties in the House gave unanimous support to the Motion moved by my right hon. Friend the Leader of the Opposition which called for initiative forthwith by the Government to bring about discussions in relation to this matter? In view of that, will he not reconsider it?
§ The Prime MinisterThe Resolution has never been absent from my mind. It was carried unanimously by the House, but that was on the understanding that time, place and circumstances would have to be considered.