§ 1. Mr. A. Hendersonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement on the present situation in Korea in relation to the 1953 Armistice Agreement.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Ian Harvey)The objective of the United Nations in Korea—to bring about by peaceful means the 2 establishment of a unified, independent and democratic Korea—remains unchanged. Following the Armistice of 1953, it was hoped to reach a settlement by the negotiation of a political agreement at the Geneva Conference of 1954. This hope was frustrated by the Communist refusal to accept the authority of the United Nations or their proposals for a settlement, including genuinely free elections. Unfortunately, there has been no indication since that date of any change in the Communist attitude.
§ Mr. HendersonCan the Minister say whether the Armistice Commission is still functioning?
§ Mr. HarveyYes, Sir.
§ Mr. TeelingDoes my hon. Friend realise that there is considerable worry at the moment in Southern Korea at the presumed large increase in forces north of the border, and can he make it quite clear that the British Government would never tolerate any further attack on Southern Korea?
§ Mr. HarveyThat is essentially a United Nations matter, which does not strictly arise out of this Question.