HC Deb 17 February 1955 vol 537 cc556-7
46. Mr. Lewis

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been drawn to the official statement of the Soviet Foreign Minister that in the event of the ratification of the Paris Treaties the Soviet Government would be unwilling to enter into Four-Power talks; and to what extent this statement affects his proposals for eventual Four-Power talks.

The Prime Minister

I have read the speech made by Mr. Molotov before the Supreme Soviet of the U.S.S.R. on 8th February, which I presume the hon. Member has in mind, together with other recent statements of the Soviet Government. I am unable to find in any of them the particular statement to which the hon. Member refers.

Mr. Lewis

Surely the Prime Minister has seen many references to the fact that the Soviet Government have declared that in the event of ratification they would refuse to take part in any Four-Power talks? That has been widely reported in most of the Press. In view of that, can he say what will be the position with which we shall be confronted in the event of ratification, when the West will not be able to negotiate because of the Russian refusal to do so? Surely he will put forward some ideas?

The Prime Minister

I cannot attempt to deal with hypothetical situations.

52. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister to what extent the proposed Four-Power Conference to be held after ratification of the Paris Agreements is in substitution of his policy of talks at the highest level.

The Prime Minister

Neither meeting is exclusive of the other once the ratification of the Paris Agreements has been achieved.

Mr. Henderson

With a view to preparing the ground for the proposed Four-Power Conference, is any action being taken through diplomatic or other channels to ascertain the detailed proposals of the Soviet Government with regard to free elections in Germany?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir. Nothing that has not already been laid bare has been attempted in that direction.