HC Deb 13 December 1956 vol 562 cc623-4
49. Mr. Moyle

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of Pandit Nehru's forthcoming visit to London, he will use this opportunity to meet him with a view to strengthening United Kingdom-Indian relations.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

The hon. Gentleman will naturally not expect me to be able to say anything definite until my right hon. Friend returns. But I know that he will wish to take an opportunity of meeting Mr. Nehru if it can conveniently be arranged.

Mr. Moyle

With a view to promoting this desirable end, will the Lord Privy Seal ask his hon. Friends behind him in the meantime to restrain their expressions of derision every time the name of Pandit Nehru is mentioned in the House?

Mr. Butler

I certainly will do my best to control my right hon. and hon. Friends, but there are limits to what we can achieve in these difficult circumstances. Meanwhile, I should like to say that whatever expressions of opinion may be expressed about the Prime Minister of India, I am sure that the whole House has the highest regard for his capacity and ability.

Air Commodore Harvey

Will my right hon. Friend impress upon his right hon. Friend, if the meeting does take place, that while many of us have great respect and love for India we expect a little more fairness? Many of us have been very disappointed that the Egyptian casualties should be exaggerated out of all knowledge. [HON. MEMBERS: "What are they?"] About one hundred. While India is in the Commonwealth, may we see her play her part, like Australia and New Zealand?

Mr. Butler

This Question raises very important issues. First, I should make it clear that Mr. Nehru is simply passing through this country, on his way to visit the United States of America, and I understand that he is passing back through it on his return. It depends very much upon physical circumstances whether a conversation can be arranged. I only thought it right and proper to say that I know my right hon. Friend would feel that he would like to take the opportunity of a talk, if such an opportunity arises. I would add that if there is a talk there should be a frank exchange of views. That would be a great advantage to both countries.

Mr. Gaitskell

May we take it from that answer that inquiries are being made of the High Commissioner for India in London regarding the possible date of this meeting?

Mr. Butler

I have personally ascertained the date of Mr. Nehru's passage back through this country in the event of it not being possible to make contact on his way out to the United States.