HC Deb 13 February 1958 vol 582 cc571-2
47. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Prime Minister if he will make a detailed statement on the correspondence he has had recently with the Russian Government on the subject of summit talks, indicating how this matter now stands.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister sent a letter to Mr. Bulganin on 8th February. The text of this letter has been published, and Her Majesty's Government are now waiting to learn the reactions of the Soviet Government.1 do not think that I can usefully make a more detailed statement at this stage.

Mr. Hughes

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that there has already been far too much delay in this matter? Will not the Government assert the sovereignty and independence of Britain in international matters of this sort and bring it to a head?

Mr. Butler

In so far as one can bring a letter to a head, we have answered it.