HC Deb 12 November 1956 vol 560 c539
19. Mr. Moss

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what was the nature of the personal message which he sent in his official capacity on Sunday, 28th October, to Mr. Dulles, the United States Secretary of State.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State (Mr. Douglas Dodds-Parker)

My right hon. and learned Friend sent no personal message to Mr. Dulles on 28th October. The Question does not, therefore, arise.

Mr. Moss

Might I call the Minister's attention to the fact that it was asserted on the front page of the News Chronicle on 2nd November that such a message had been sent with intent to deceive the American Government about British intentions in the Middle East—

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Member is asking about something which appeared in a newspaper. It is not a matter for which the Minister can be held responsible.

Mr. Moss

With great respect, Mr. Speaker, I was about to ask the Minister what steps he will take to repudiate such propaganda, which has appeared in newspapers here and abroad.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I do not think I can be expected to answer that point without notice, but my right hon. and learned Friend made it clear when an instance was raised recently that he had not misled the United States Government.