§ The Prime MinisterSir, with your permission and that of the House, I will make a short statement. A similar announcement is being made at this time in Canberra and Wellington.
The Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia and the Prime Minister of New Zealand have invited me to visit their countries at the beginning of next year. I have accepted these invitations with the greatest pleasure.
I intend to leave London by air during the Christmas Recess for New Zealand, and from there I shall visit Australia. I shall return to the United Kingdom during February.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsMay I assure the Prime Minister, on behalf of my right hon. and hon. Friends, that we welcome this invitation from the Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand and are glad that the right hon. Gentleman is able to accept it? We desire that these contacts between us and the Commonwealth shall be kept as close as possible.
§ The Prime MinisterI am much obliged to the right hon. Gentleman. I am glad that we are all at one on this, anyway.
Air Commodore HarveyIs my right hon. Friend aware that he will be the first Prime Minister in office to visit those great countries and that we are sure that he will receive a great welcome?
§ Mr. CallaghanCan the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that he will be the first Prime Minister in office?
§ The Prime MinisterI should have thought that with the help which hon. and right hon. Gentlemen opposite have been giving me lately there ought to be no doubt about it.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesWill the Prime Minister consider returning overland via China and calling at Peking on the way?
§ Mr. D. JonesWhen he is visiting Australia and New Zealand would the Prime Minister inquire what Members of Parliament are paid there?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. It is always the object of journeys to carry out all possible investigations.
§ Mr. M. LindsayIs my right hon. Friend satisfied that he will be able to obtain a pair?