§ 50. Mr. Harold Daviesasked the Prime Minister what alterations were made by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Council to his replies to Mr. Bulganin.
§ The Prime MinisterThe members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation have, of course, consulted each other about their replies to Mr. Bulganin's letters in accordance with their normal practice of discussing matters of common concern. But such discussions in the North Atlantic Council are naturally confidential.
§ Mr. DaviesDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that at this juncture in history the Government should give a lead, and that they need not ask for the guidance of N.A.T.O. or anyone else? Has not the time come for the British people to decide? In his answer to this question, will he refrain from illustrating the evident, expounding upon the obvious and expatiating upon the commonplace, and give the British people a lead?
§ The Prime MinisterI am glad that the hon. Member has got off his supplementary question so well; it must have taken quite a lot of learning. I hope that the House and the country feel that the replies we sent were steps in the direction in which we want to move. When we have allies and friends, it is wise to keep in good consultation with them.