HC Deb 08 April 1959 vol 603 cc172-3
13. Mr. Healey

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to what extent it is Her Majesty's Government's policy that West Berlin should be considered politically a part of the German Federal Republic.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Berlin is not a part of the Federal Republic; and Her Majesty's Government's policy is determined accordingly.

Mr. Healey

While fully agreeing with the Foreign Secretary's view as being reasonable at the present time, may I ask whether he would not agree that if Russia unilaterally denounces the four-Power agreement on Berlin, the West should consider the formal incorporation of West Berlin in the German Republic as one of its responses?

Mr. Lloyd

I will certainly consider what the hon. Member has said.

19. Mr. J. Hynd

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will seek the establishment of a four-Power investigation into allegations of subversive activities, espionage, etc., in East and West Berlin.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Her Majesty's Government are at present consulting their Allies about possible ways and means of reaching a solution of the Berlin problem. I have noted the hon. Gentleman's suggestion.

Mr. Hynd

But will the Minister agree that, in view of the substantial allegations that are being made from both sides in this connection, many of which are certainly not without foundation, in the interests of achieving some satisfactory solution of the Berlin problem, it would help if a four-Power commission could be established to inquire into the facts and possibly lead to the setting up of some kind of control over such activities on both sides?

Mr. Lloyd

As I have said, I have noted the hon. Gentleman's suggestion.