HC Deb 03 February 1955 vol 536 cc1271-2
46. Mr. P. Williams

asked the Prime Minister if he will propose that the membership of future conferences of Commonwealth Prime Ministers should be discussed at the present conference.

The Prime Minister

I cannot give any advance information about particular subjects which are or are not to be discussed at Prime Ministers' meetings. Any Prime Minister can raise any question he wishes during the conference.

Mr. Williams

In view of the rapidly changing nature of the Commonwealth, will my right hon. Friend accept that the membership of future conferences or meetings of Prime Ministers is a delicate matter, but one of paramount importance to the future use of the conference?

The Prime Minister

I do not think any addition to my particular answer is called for.

47. Mr. P. Williams

asked the Prime Minister what consideration has been given to the possibility of holding the conferences of Commonwealth Prime Ministers in places other than London.

The Prime Minister

Meetings of Commonwealth Prime Ministers have always hitherto been held in London. It is no doubt arguable whether any kind of preference should be shown to a mass of buildings which have stood for some time on the banks of a small and sometimes rather shrouded river just because the locality has been frequently mentioned in bygone days. Many of our visitors, however, find London geographically convenient, and this House, without distinction of party, is glad and proud to welcome them.