HC Deb 17 March 1958 vol 584 cc900-1
12. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the declaration of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics that the waters surrounding Vladivostok beyond the three-mile limit are internal, what representations have been made to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics by Her Majesty's Government on this matter.

Mr. Ian Harvey

Her Majesty's Government made representations to the Soviet Government through Her Majesty's Embassy at Moscow on 10th September, 1957. In their view, the Soviet claim is unwarranted by any evidence that the Bay had previously been claimed as Soviet internal waters. It also has no foundation in international law, and is contrary to the principle of the freedom of the seas.

Mr. Henderson

In view of the differences between a number of Governments about territorial waters, is any attempt to be made to secure international agreement through an international conference on this matter?

Mr. Harvey

There is a considerable conference taking place upon this subject at the present time.

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