Anglo-Ethiopian Treaty

HC Deb 07 November 1955 vol 545 c1471

27. Mr. Callaghan

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will instruct the United Kingdom delegate to the United Nations to refrain from voting against the proposal to test the validity of the Anglo-Ethiopian Treaty, 1897, in the International Court of Justice.

Mr. Turton

The proposal to which the hon. Member refers is not on the Agenda for the United Nations Assembly.

Mr. Callaghan

But there are strong hopes that it will be. In any case, will the Under-Secretary take the initiative himself in referring this matter to the International Court in view of the increased disturbances out there? Tribesmen are being killed and arrested every day, and there will be more and more trouble unless the Government take some action.

Mr. Turton

I do not think Her Majesty's Government will propose such a resolution.

Mr. Callaghan

Well, they will be in trouble out there soon.