§ 32. Mr. Lewisasked the Minister Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the terms of the most recent communication from Her Majesty's Government to the United States of America in regard to the operation of the Tripartite Declaration.
§ The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Commander Allan Noble)As my right hon. and learned Friend told the 1369 House on 31st October, there were discussions with the United States and France about the Tripartite Declaration on 28th and 29th October. Since they were confidential, I am not prepared to disclose their nature.
§ Mr. LewisCan the Minister confirm or deny the statement in the New York Times that Her Majesty's Government informed the American Government that they would not in any way hold themselves bound by the Tripartite Declaration and that from now on the Declaration was abrogated?
§ Commander NobleI am afraid I cannot confirm or deny what the hon. Member has said. I have nothing to add to my original answer.
§ Mr. RobensMay I ask the hon. and gallant Gentleman whether the Tripartite Declaration still remains the basis of the Government's policy in the Middle East?
§ Commander NobleI am answering a Question on that subject later.