HC Deb 01 May 1957 vol 569 c187
31. Mr. Owen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that the International Co-operative Alliance is convening a conference at Kuala Lumpur for the co-operative movements of Asia in the autumn of this year; and whether Her Majesty's Government will send an observer.

Mr. Profumo

My right hon. Friend was aware of the proposal to convene such a conference but did not know that the place and date had been fixed. So far as I know, Her Majesty's Government have not received any invitation to send an observer.

Mr. Owen

Is the Minister aware that the nations associated with the Colombo Plan are particularly concerned about the development of this project in the East among the Asiatic peoples, and that this development is regarded as offering a vital opportunity for the development of the British way of life right on the doorstep of Asiatic Communism? From that point of view, will the Government consider sending an observer to this important conference?

Mr. Profumo

With regard to the last part of the supplementary question, I should have to consider that matter if an invitation came. I am sure that this conference will help along the lines which the hon. Gentleman has in mind.