HC Deb 18 December 1958 vol 597 cc1305-7
47. Mr. Swingler

asked the Prime Minister if he will send a message to the heads of all Governments expressing Great Britain's determination to seek peace and foster good will with all peoples, irrespective of creed, colour, race or politics.

The Prime Minister

Since it is well known that Her Majesty's Government's policy is based on these admirable principles, I hardly think that such a message is necessary.

Mr. Swingler

Would it not be a good idea for this country, or at any rate for heads of Governments, occasionally to express a certain amount of good will towards each other? Would it not be appropriate, especially in view of the controversies raging both at home and abroad, if at this time the pro tem head of the British Government made a reaffirmation of faith in the ideals and principles of the United Nations?

The Prime Minister

This is a specific Question as to whether I should send a specific message to all other heads of Governments. I think, as I have said, that though we may be divided on certain points, our broad British policies for peace and good will are well known, and I should not have thought it necessary to send a special message of this kind to every Government throughout the world.

Mr. Brockway

In Cyprus.

The Prime Minister

I say that although I appreciate the feeling that lies behind the suggestion made by the hon. Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme (Mr. Swingler).

Mr. Awbery

In view of the fact that there is a general urge among our Colonies for self-government, would the Prime Minister meet representatives of the various Colonies and tell them that it is our intention to give them self-government at the earliest opportunity and that he will help them in every way he can to achieve it in the quickest possible time?

The Prime Minister

I think every hon. Member who has looked at the story of colonial development throughout the Empire towards self-government over the last two generations must regard it as a very noble and very fine story, and it is our intention, as I think it is of Governments drawn from either side of the House, to continue in this process of education and preparation towards the increase of local self-government. The picture is very different from that in countries on the other side of the Iron Curtain.

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