HC Deb 01 August 1956 vol 557 c1377
19. Mr. Beswick

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what proposals have been put by the United Kingdom delegate to the United Nations Committee which is considering the question of the review of the United Nations Charter.

Lord John Hope

The Committee in question has not yet been set up, and no proposals have so far been put forward by the United Kingdom or any other Member of the United Nations.

Mr. Beswick

Does not the Joint Under-Secretary think that we ought to be looking ahead in these matters? Do not the events of the past few days prove that, instead of just turning to the United Nations whenever we are in a crisis, we should be planning ahead and strengthening the authority of that body? May we have an assurance that the matter is receiving the attention of the Government?

Lord John Hope

Yes, Sir, we are certainly looking ahead, but we do not think that the hon. Gentleman's suggestion represents the right method at the moment.

Mr. Usborne

As the British delegate last November voted for the setting up of the Committee, does not the Joint Under-Secretary think it proper for the Government to produce some ideas about how the Charter might be altered and improved now that it is being considered from that angle?

Lord John Hope

No, Sir; I do not think that alters the position.