HC Deb 16 July 1956 vol 556 cc831-2
9. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, following the recent visit of the United Nations Secretary-General to the Middle East, full compliance with the Armistice Agreements have now been secured between Israel and her Arab neighbours; and whether he will make a statement on the present situation on the Israeli-Arab borders.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

The Security Council Resolution of 4th June, amongst other things, requested the Secretary-General to continue his good offices with the parties with a view to full compliance with the Armistice Agreements and to report to the Security Council as appropriate. I would rather not comment in advance of a report from the Secretary-General.

In answer to the second part of the Question, I have nothing to add to the reply given by my right hon. and learned Friend to the right hon. and learned Gentleman on 9th July.

Mr. Henderson

Can we not at least be told whether the reports in the Press during the last two or three days, to the effect that there have been concentrations of troops on both sides of the border, are correct? Has there been observation by the United Nations Truce Observer and his staff? Can we not be told?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

There has been public notification by the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation in the last day or two that investigations on the spot have revealed no unusual concentration of troops.