§ 48. Mr. Wyattasked the Prime Minister what discussions he had recently with other Commonwealth Prime Ministers concerning United Kingdom membership of the Australia, New Zealand and United States Pact; and what arrangements were made for obtaining Australian and New Zealand help in defending Malaya.
§ The Prime MinisterThe final communiqué of the Conference states that the security of Malaya is regarded by the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand as of vital importance. No change has been made in the relationship of the United Kingdom to A.N.Z.U.S. The Manila Treaty, which set up S.E.A.T.O.—"Seāto,"or "Seato," as some people call it—to which the United Kingdom is a party, has come into being, 558 and the relationship of these two bodies has not yet been finally or formally defined. I have little doubt that a satisfactory relationship will be reached in the spirit of unity and friendship which rules in our Commonwealth affairs.
It would not help the discussions which are to take place in other Commonwealth Parliaments, nor would it be compatible with the efficiency of Commonwealth Prime Ministers' Conferences in London, if confidential and intimate conversations, both formal and informal, were laid before the House of Commons.
§ Mr. WyattCan the Prime Minister say whether Australia and New Zealand propose to send troops now to Malaya to help in the operations against the guerrillas?
§ The Prime MinisterI think I have given the hon. Gentleman a very full and considerate answer to his Question.