THAILAND (ISTHMUS OF KRA)

HC Deb 14 July 1958 vol 591 cc820-1

39. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what discussions have taken place between the Governments of the United Kingdom and the United States of America on the effects on Singapore trade of the United States plan to cut a canal across the Isthmus of Kra in Siam.

Commander Noble

None, Sir.

Mr. Rankin

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that the idea of such a canal has been ventilated from time to time? Can he assure us that informal talks have not taken place at some levels lower than Government level?

Commander Noble

I can certainly give the hon. Member that assurance. Of course, as the House knows well, the possibility of constructing a canal across the Kra Isthmus has long been thought of in Thailand.