HC Deb 12 May 1958 vol 588 cc24-5
45. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs with what States the United Kingdom does not maintain diplomatic relations.

Mr. Ian Harvey

Her Majesty's Government do not maintain diplomatic relations with Albania, Saudi Arabia or with the United Arab Republic.

Mr. Rankin

Is it not the case, as I am assured it is, that we do not maintain diplomatic relations with Eastern Germany? If that is so, is the Under-Secretary aware that the United States, which does not maintain diplomatic relations with Eastern Germany either, nevertheless manages to take 60 per cent. of all the porcelain produced at the Meissen factories? In face of that good example, is there any reason why we should not at least exchange trading missions with East Germany?

Mr. Harvey

The hon. Gentleman asked me with what States we do not maintain diplomatic relations. We do not recognise the D.D.R.