HC Deb 19 November 1958 vol 595 cc1130-1
31. Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will take steps, with other Powers, to develop the principle of establishing a world police force, in view of the attempt under Article 43 of the United Nations Charter having been unsuccessful.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Her Majesty's Government support the views set out by the Secretary-General in his recent report on the experience derived from the operation of the United Nations Emergency Force. I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

Mr. Roberts

Does the Minister realise that the lack of co-operation by Governments on the other side of the Iron Curtain is making it extremely difficult to establish a world police force? In view of this situation, can the Minister say whether there are any ways by which this matter can be brought to life instead of remaining dormant?

Mr. Lloyd

I share the views of the hon. Member about this matter. I was very pleased to see that the United Nations Emergency Force is to be continued for another year, as there was some doubt about that and some anxiety about whether it would be prevented from happening. That is one good thing. I consider it a good idea that there should be some study with a view to establishing procedure whereby a force could be set up at short notice. I hope that the Secretary-General's idea of establishing a staff, with plans all ready made, at the United Nations will be accepted. Although that is only a modest step forward, at least it is a step forward.

Mr. Usborne

Even though such a force could be set up at short notice under the proposals of the Secretary-General, is it not important to consider that the force be regarded as one which is directly recruited and not composed of national contingents which could be withdrawn at short notice? Is not direct recruitment something at which we should aim?

Mr. Lloyd

That might be a good objective ultimately, but I am certain that it is not at present practicable. In my view, the easiest way is to get certain people earmarked by their Governments, certain detachments of forces earmarked for speedy use.