HC Deb 17 March 1958 vol 584 c909
25. Mr. Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to what extent he discussed the possibility of a Summit Conference when attending meetings in Manila, Philippines, recently, in connection with the South-East Asia Treaty Organisation; and whether he will make a statement on these discussions.

Commander Noble

My right hon. and learned Friend took the opportunity to have informal discussions with Mr. Dulles and M. Pineau on preparations for a Summit Conference. In view of their confidential nature, he would not wish to say more than that he and his two colleagues found themselves in broad agreement.

Mr. Lewis

Was it a confidential discussion? Has the Minister not seen reports in the Press of what is alleged to have taken place? Would it not be better for the Minister to give us at least some idea of whether Mr. Foster Dulles had it all his own way, or whether our own Foreign Secretary was able to bring pressure to bear on Mr. Foster Dulles?

Commander Noble

I think the hon. Member had better rely on the official communiqué published after the conference.

Mr. Shinwell

Can the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say what agreement with Mr. Dulles really means?